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Abstract #47029 Published in IGR 13-3
Self-reported medication adherence in glaucoma patients
Mirzaian E; Johnson K; Chopra V; Padre J; Varma RJournal of the American Pharmacists Association 2011; 51: 217
Objective: (1) To survey glaucoma patients on self-reported medication adherence (SRA), knowledge of glaucoma and its treatment, attitudes toward medications, and reasons for nonadherence. (2) To identify patient demographics and characteristics associated with SRA. Methods: Data were extracted from an original academic medical center study designed to measure glaucoma medication adherence in patients under usual care vs. patients with regular physician and pharmacist telephone follow up. Baseline data included demographic information, personal health, a Morisky score for SRA, knowledge of glaucoma and treatment, attitudes toward medications, and reasons for nonadherence. Demographic, clinical, and knowledge data were further categorized to compare between patients with low and high SRA. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Of 196 enrolled patients, 54% were female and 52% Caucasian. The mean age was 69 years and the mean number of years since glaucoma diagnosis was 12.5. Among those with low SRA, 49% had at least a 4-year college education vs. 53% in those with high SRA. Seventy-four percent of patients with low SRA and 85% with high SRA reported good, very good, or excellent health. No statistically significant differences in knowledge about glaucoma were seen between the patients with low and high SRA, yet those with high SRA provided more correct responses to questions about glaucoma treatment. The majority of patients in both low (85%) and high (92%) SRA groups reported taking their glaucoma medications daily for at least 6 months; however, 89% of patients with low SRA reported forgetfulness as the main reason for nonadherence vs. 40% in the high SRA group. Conclusion: SRA in this population is not predicted by demographic or clinical characteristics. Knowledge of glaucoma or attitudes toward medications did not correlate with SRA. Interventions are needed to address common barriers to medication adherence.
E. Mirzaian. University of Southern California, United States.
Classification:
11.17 Cooperation with medical therapy e.g. persistency, compliance, adherence (Part of: 11 Medical treatment)
