Examining the Level of Integration of Nutrition Management Service for Hypertensive Elderly Patients in Maseru City Council Health Facilities

Abstract

Integration is an important part of reform used in health care to reduce healthcare costs for both patients and the health system. NMS integration into hypertension services for elderly patients has the potential to help put the blood pressure of patients under control. The study aimed to determine the level of integration of NMS in the hypertension service delivery chain for hypertensive elderly patients receiving outpatient care in Maseru City Council health facilities. This was a descriptive cross-sectional study that used quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis. The results revealed the low integration of NMS for hypertensive elderly patients in these two facilities. The inputs for the service were available but inadequate, and some were unavailable, and this hurt NMS processes provision. Out of 74 patients who participated, none of them had their weights and heights measured, and only 9.5% were asked about lifestyle and diet compliance. NMS integration was low in both facilities for several reasons.