Zeitschrift für Interventionelle und Allgemeine Kardiologie

Addressing Medication Non-adherence in Rheumatology Oncology and Cardiology: Reviewing Risk Factors and Interventions

Abstract

Nicholas Teman*

Medication non-adherence poses a significant challenge across various medical specialties, including rheumatology, oncology, and cardiology, compromising treatment efficacy and patient outcomes. This review synthesizes current literature to elucidate risk factors contributing to medication non-adherence in these fields and assesses interventions aimed at mitigating this issue. Common risk factors identified include complex medication regimens, financial constraints, cognitive impairment, psychological factors, and lack of social support. Interventions to improve adherence encompass multifaceted approaches, including patient education, medication simplification, technological aids (e.g., reminders, smartphone applications), behavioural interventions, and healthcare system enhancements (e.g., pharmacist-led interventions, collaborative care models). Tailored interventions, addressing specific patient needs and preferences, demonstrate promising results in enhancing medication adherence. However, the optimal strategies remain elusive, warranting further research to refine approaches tailored to the unique challenges within rheumatology, oncology, and cardiology settings. Effective adherence interventions hold the potential to optimize treatment outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and improve patient well-being across these specialties.