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Cash Rewards Double Medication Use But Don't Improve Blood Pressure

Study finds cash rewards doubled blood pressure medication adherence but didn't improve blood pressure outcomes. Research reveals complex relationship between medication-taking behavior and health results.

This research challenges fundamental assumptions about medication adherence and health outcomes, revealing that simply getting people to take their pills more consistently doesn't necessarily translate to better health results. For the millions of Americans managing high blood pressure—particularly those in underserved communities—these findings suggest that healthcare providers need to look beyond medication adherence alone and consider more holistic approaches to cardiovascular health. The study also raises important questions about the sustainability of financial incentive programs in healthcare, as the behavior changes disappeared once the rewards stopped. This matters because high blood pressure affects nearly half of American adults and is a leading contributor to heart attacks and strokes, making effective management strategies crucial for public health.