Definition of Medication Adherence:
Medication adherence is the extent to which patients correctly follow prescribed instructions, including taking the right dose, at the right times, and for the prescribed duration.
Importance:
Health Outcomes: Non-adherence can worsen health outcomes, increase hospitalizations, and elevate healthcare costs. Adherence is crucial for managing chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
Economic Impact: Non-adherence leads to higher healthcare utilization and avoidable costs.
Safety: Over- or under-adherence can cause adverse effects or therapeutic failure.
Factors Influencing Adherence:
Patient-related: Beliefs about illness, fear of side effects, lack of understanding, cognitive issues, and financial barriers.
Medication-related: Complex regimens, frequent dosing, and side effects.
Healthcare system-related: Limited access, long wait times, and lack of continuity in care.
Socioeconomic and Cultural: Literacy, cultural beliefs, and lack of insurance.