HEARTS quality: a policy framework to strengthen hypertension and cardiovascular risk management in primary healthcare-insights from HEARTS in the Americas

Abstract

SummaryHEARTS in the Americas is the largest-scale implementation of the WHO's global initiative, with 33 countries participating, 28 having adopted standardized clinical pathways, and about 10,000 primary healthcare facilities engaged. Despite progress, fragmented care, limited availability of validated blood pressure devices, restricted access to essential medicines, and weak quality assurance systems continue to hinder hypertension control and cardiovascular risk management. In response, PAHO and participating countries co-developed the HEARTS Quality Framework. Grounded in regional implementation, this model synthesizes global evidence and lessons from Latin America and the Caribbean. Co-designed by Ministries of Health, care providers, and international experts, it translates HEARTS strategies into actionable system-level objectives. Clearly defined outcome indicators and implementation targets promote institutionalization, quality improvement, and primary healthcare strengthening—supporting HEARTS scale-up and equitable outcomes. With appropriate contextualization, the HEARTS Quality Framework provides a practical roadmap for countries beyond the Region to advance primary healthcare-based chronic disease care.