South East London ICS is working with a Google-backed health start-up on a six-month virtual consultation initiative aimed at improving hypertension management and tackling health inequalities in the borough of Lewisham.

The partnership will see Suvera, which is on the NHS Innovation Accelerator programme, offer a “hybrid service” with independent prescribing pharmacists “carry out virtual reviews for hypertensive patients and offer full end-to-end care management,” the company said, adding that the pharmacists will “implement proactive and interactive care, risk prioritisation and triaging of remote blood pressure measurements to address these critical health concerns”.

The service will “feature multilingual engagement automations and accessibility features for visual impairment,” said Suvera, adding that the initiative will target patients with an existing diagnosis to help them control their condition more effectively.

Lewisham borough is “challenged by low hypertension control rates,” said Suvera, with minority ethnic communities and low income households disproportionately represented in uncontrolled hypertension statistics and some GP surgeries ranking in the bottom one per cent for hypertension control in England.

Suvera founder and CEO Ivan Beckley said: “We are thrilled to partner with NHS South East London ICS to transform hypertension management in the area. Having worked with practices across the country, our technology-driven approach is well positioned to significantly improve outcomes.

“As we rapidly expand our services across London and the UK, we are genuinely excited about making a positive impact on patient outcomes across Lewisham.

“This collaboration signifies a significant step forward in our mission to enhance healthcare accessibility and outcomes through innovative virtual care solutions.”

Ian Ross, an associate director with the ICS, commented: “High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart attack, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.

“We are delighted to be working with Suvera to provide additional support to our residents in Lewisham to improve their blood pressure management. Through this partnership, we will help to reduce the risk of serious medical events that can be life-changing for individuals and their families.”