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Jerry Penso, M.D., M.B.A., is president and chief executive officer at AMGA (American Medical Group Association), a trade association that represents medical groups and other organized systems of care, including some of the nation's largest, most influential integrated healthcare delivery systems.
Dr. Penso previously served as chief medical and quality officer for AMGA and president of AMGA Foundation.
Prior to joining AMGA, Dr. Penso served as medical director, continuum of care for Sharp Rees-Stealy Medical Group (SRSMG), the largest integrated healthcare delivery system in San Diego.
Dr. Penso received his Master's in Business Administration from San Diego State University, his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, and a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley.
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I need to regularly monitor my blood pressure and must purchase a blood pressure cuff. Will my insurance cover this?
Monitoring your blood pressure at home, in conjunction with your health care team, is an important way to improve your numbers. At-home readings allow you to take more frequent blood pressure readings, track changes over time and help your provider recommend appropriate lifestyle modifications or medication treatment plan.
Some—but not all—insurance plans cover the cost of a blood pressure monitor for home readings. Be sure to check with your insurer about coverage details. Even if the cost of a monitor isn't covered, you have other options:
Not all home blood pressure monitors are created equal. Be sure to talk with your physician or health care team to make sure that your blood pressure monitor provides precise readings and that you know how to take an accurate reading. After all, you don't want to spend money for a machine that isn't providing you the proper information, do you?
Article courtesy of Measure Up/Pressure Down®. Measure Up/Pressure Down is a three-year national campaign created by the American Medical Group Foundation to improve blood pressure control. Learn how to lower your risk and manage the disease with our booklet, Circulation Nation: Your Roadmap to Managing High Blood Pressure.