It is estimated that between one-third and one-half of all medicines prescribed for long-term conditions are not taken as recommended. Even when prescriptions are appropriate, this leads to losses for patients, the healthcare system, and society at large, both personally and economically. Guidelines from the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) highlight how healthcare professionals can support patients in making informed decisions, encourage shared decision-making, and help patients adhere to their prescribed medicines.
Understanding Adherence Adherence is more than compliance—it represents an agreement between prescriber and patient on the recommended treatment. It is defined as the extent to which a patient’s actions match agreed recommendations. Non-adherence may reduce or negate the benefits of medicines, leading to poor health outcomes and higher…
