Why is adherence important?
 

Studies have shown that approximately 50% of patients do not take their chronic medications as prescribed. Nonadherence can include delaying or not filling a prescription, skipping doses, splitting pills, or stopping a medication early. Nationally, nonadherence costs the healthcare system an estimated $100 to $289 billion annually. Not only does nonadherence increase costs, but it also leads to poorer health outcomes for patients.

What role can pharmacists play?
 

Pharmacists can play a major role in improving adherence for their patients. Through a variety of services, pharmacists can work with patients to find an approach that works for them. These services will not only improve patient satisfaction, but also lead to improved quality of care delivered in the pharmacy.

“Drugs don’t work in patients who don’t take them.”
—C. Everett Koop, MD

Defining Adherence
 

Appointment Based Model

• Resource 1
• Resource 2
• Resource 3

Motivational Interviewing

Medication Therapy Management

Utilizing Support Staff

Success Stories
 

• Improving adherence in appointment-based model
• ACO looks to appointment-based model to save health care dollars
• The pharmacist will see you now