Mount Carmel Health Partners Clinical Guidelines Medication Adherence

Medication Adherence Clinical Guideline
Definition: Medication adherence is defined by the World Health Organization as "the degree to which the person’s behavior
corresponds with the agreed recommendations from a health care provider." Compliance is the extent to which a patient’s
behavior matches the prescriber’s advice.

Dimensions of Patient Medication Adherence

Healthcare
System/
Team

Social
and
Economic
Factors

Condition
Related

Patient
Related

Therapy
Related

Quick Guide
• 20 to 30% of medication prescriptions are
never filled
• In about 50% of cases, medications are not
continued as prescribed
• Patient involvement is essential in improving
adherence
• Involve patients in decision making regarding
their medications so that they have a sense
of ownership and they are partners in the
treatment plan
• If possible simplify the medication regimen
based on patient characteristics and
understanding.
• Address the purpose and key information
about the drugs (what, why, when, how, and
how long).
• Inform the patient of common side effects

August 2016