Showing papers in "Patient Preference and Adherence in 2017"

Why do psychiatric patients stop antipsychotic medication? A systematic review of reasons for nonadherence to medication in patients with serious mental illness.

Abstract: Background Antipsychotic medication reduces the severity of serious mental illness (SMI) and improves patient outcomes only when medicines were taken as prescribed. Nonadherence to the treatment of SMI increases the risk of relapse and hospitalization and reduces the quality of life. It is necessary to understand the factors influencing nonadherence to medication in order to identify appropriate interventions. This systematic review assessed the published evidence on modifiable reasons for nonadherence to antipsychotic medication in patients with SMI. Methods Articles published between January 1, 2005, and September 10, 2015, were searched on MEDLINE through PubMed. Abstracts were independently screened by 2 randomly assigned authors for inclusion, and disagreement was resolved by another author. Selected full-text articles were divided among all authors for review. Results A qualitative analysis of data from 36 articles identified 11 categories of reasons for nonadherence. Poor insight was identified as a reason for nonadherence in 55.6% (20/36) of studies, followed by substance abuse (36.1%, 13/36), a negative attitude toward medication (30.5%, 11/36), medication side effects (27.8%, 10/36), and cognitive impairments (13.4%, 7/36). A key reason directly associated with intentional nonadherence was a negative attitude toward medication, a mediator of effects of insight and therapeutic alliance. Substance abuse was the only reason consistently associated with unintentional nonadherence, regardless of type and stage of SMI. Discussion Although adherence research is inherently biased because of numerous methodological limitations and specific reasons under investigation, reasons for nonadherence consistently identified as significant across studies likely reflect valid existing associations with important clinical implications. Conclusion This systematic review suggests that a negative attitude toward medication and substance abuse are consistent reasons for nonadherence to antipsychotic medication among people with SMI. Adherence enhancement approaches that specifically target these reasons may improve adherence in a high-risk group. However, it is also important to identify drivers of poor adherence specific to each patient in selecting and implementing intervention strategies.

Barriers and facilitators of adjuvant hormone therapy adherence and persistence in women with breast cancer: A systematic review

Abstract: PURPOSE Nonadherence to hormone therapy in breast cancer survivors is common and associated with increased risk of mortality. Consistent predictors of nonadherence and nonpersistence are yet to be identified, and little research has examined psychosocial factors that may be amenable to change through intervention. This review aimed to identify predictors of nonadherence and nonpersistence to hormone therapy in breast cancer survivors in order to inform development of an intervention to increase adherence rates. METHODS Studies published up to April 2016 were identified through MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL and gray literature. Studies published in English measuring associations between adherence or persistence and any predictor variables were included. Eligible studies were assessed for methodological quality, data were extracted and a narrative synthesis was conducted. RESULTS Sixty-one eligible articles were identified. Most studies focused on clinical and demographic factors with inconsistent results. Some evidence suggested that receiving specialist care and social support were related to increased persistence, younger age and increased number of hospitalizations were associated with nonadherence, and good patient-physician relationship and self-efficacy for taking medication were associated with better adherence. A small amount of evidence suggested that medication beliefs were associated with adherence, but more high-quality research is needed to confirm this. CONCLUSION Some psychosocial variables were associated with better adherence and persistence, but the results are currently tentative. Future high-quality research should be carried out to identify psychosocial determinants of nonadherence or nonpersistence that are modifiable through intervention.

Self-medication practice in Ethiopia: a systematic review

Abstract: Background Self-medication patterns vary among different populations, and are influenced by many factors. No review has been done that comprehensively expresses self-medication practice in Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to provide an overview of the literature on self-medication practice in Ethiopia. Materials and methods Databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, and Hinari) were searched for published studies on the practice of self-medication in Ethiopia without restriction in the year of publication or methodology. Some studies were also identified through manual Google search. Primary search terms were "self medication", "Ethiopia", "self care", "non-prescription", "OTC drug use", "drug utilization", and "drug hoarding". Studies that measured knowledge only or attitude only or beliefs only and did not determine the practice of self-medication were excluded. Results The database search produced a total of 450 papers. After adjustment for duplicates and inclusion and exclusion criteria, 21 articles were found suitable for the review. All studies were cross-sectional in nature. The prevalence of self-medication varied from 12.8% to 77.1%, with an average of 36.8%. Fever/headache, gastrointestinal tract diseases, and respiratory diseases were the commonest illnesses/symptoms for which self-medication was taken. The major reasons for practicing self-medication were previous experience of treating a similar illness and feeling that the illness was mild. Analgesics/antipyretics, antimicrobials, gastrointestinal drugs, and respiratory drugs were the common drug classes used in self-medication. Mainly, these drugs were obtained from drug-retail outlets. The use of self-medication was commonly suggested by pharmacy professionals and friends/relatives. Conclusion Self-medication practice is prevalent in Ethiopia and varies in different populations and regions of the country. Some of the self-medication practices are harmful and need prompt action. Special attention should be given to educating the public and health care providers on the types of illnesses that can be self-diagnosed and self-treated and the types of drugs to be used for self-medication.

Treatment adherence in hemophilia

Abstract: Prophylactic clotting-factor regimens reduce the occurrence of bleeding episodes and maintain joint health in individuals with moderate and severe hemophilia. However, these outcomes are only achieved with adherence to prescribed prophylaxis regimens. There are several types of barriers to adherence related to key patient, condition, treatment, health-care system, and/or socioeconomic variables. Notably, health-care professionals may not prescribe prophylaxis if they perceive that a patient will be nonadherent. Prophylactic treatment strategies should be developed with the patient and family, focused on individualized treatment goals. Personalized strategies are needed to reinforce the importance of and encourage confidence in administering the regular infusions required for prophylactic therapy. These strategies may include verbal and written information delivered by health-care professionals, peers, and inter-active media. The advent of extended half-life clotting factors requiring less frequent infusion may improve adherence.

Relationship between depression and medication adherence in cardiovascular disease: the perfect challenge for the integrated care team.

Abstract: Many individuals with cardiovascular disease (CVD) experience depression that is associated with poor health outcomes, which may be because of medication nonadherence. Several factors influence medication adherence and likely influence the relationship between depression and medication adherence in CVD patients. This comprehensive study reviews the existing literature on depression and medication adherence in CVD patients, addresses the methods of and problems with measuring medication adherence, and explains why the integrated care team is uniquely situated to improve the outcomes in depressed CVD patients. This paper also explores how the team can collaboratively target depressive symptoms and medication-taking behavior in routine clinical care. Finally, it suggests the limitations to the integrated care approach, identifies targets for future research, and discusses the implications for CVD patients and their families.

Factors associated with preoperative anxiety levels of Turkish surgical patients: from a single center in Ankara

Abstract: Background Preoperative anxiety and stress are undoubtedly a difficult experience in patients undergoing elective surgery. These unpleasant sensations depend on several factors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the preoperative anxiety levels in a sample of Turkish population, as well as the underlying causes using the Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI anxiety) scale. Methods The study was conducted according to the Declaration of Helsinki and was approved by the local ethical committee. All participants gave written informed consent upon having received detailed information on the study. Upon entry in the study, state and trait anxiety questionnaires were completed by 186 patients scheduled for elective surgery. The influencing factors in regard to age, sex, educational status and others were also reported. Results There was a statistically significant positive correlation between state and trait anxiety scores in this Turkish population. While the most important predictive factors that affected state-STAI scores were age, sex and duration of sleep the night before surgery; educational status and age were the best predictors for determining the variation in trait-STAI scores. Conclusion The factors affecting anxiety levels in different populations might vary among different countries. Interestingly, in this sample of Turkish population, the trait anxiety levels were found to be higher from state-anxiety levels, especially in women and less educated people. Thus, doubts about operation and anesthesia are overlooked. This could be attributed to the low to intermediate life standards of people admitted to our hospital.

Medication adherence as a predictor of 30-day hospital readmissions.

Abstract: Purpose The aim of this study was to test whether patient medication adherence, a modifiable risk factor obtainable at hospital admission, predicts readmission within 30 days. Patients and methods We used a retrospective cohort study design to test whether patient medication adherence to all chronic medications, as determined by the 4-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-4) administered by a pharmacist at the time of hospital admission, predicts 30-day readmissions. We compared readmission rates among 385 inpatients who had their adherence assessed from February 1, 2013, to January 31, 2014. Multiple logistic regression was used to examine the benefit of adding medication adherence to previously published variables that have been shown to predict 30-day readmissions. Results Patients with low and intermediate adherence (combined) had readmission rates of 20.0% compared to a readmission rate of 9.3% for patients with high adherence (P=0.005). By adding MMAS-4 data to previously published variables that have been shown to predict 30-day readmissions, we found that patients with low and intermediate medication adherence had an adjusted 2.54-fold higher odds of readmission compared to those in patients with high adherence (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.32-4.90, P=0.005). The model's predictive power, as measured by the c-statistic, improved from 0.65 to 0.70 after adding adherence. Conclusion Because medication adherence assessed at hospital admission was independently associated with 30-day readmission risk, it offers potential for targeting interventions to improve adherence.

Cost of medication adherence and persistence in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a literature review.

Abstract: Purpose To explore published evidence on health care costs associated with adherence or persistence to antidiabetes medications in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods Primary research studies published between January 2006 and December 2015 on compliance, adherence, or persistence and treatment in patients with T2DM that document a link with health care costs were identified through literature searches in bibliographic databases and 2015 abstract books for relevant DM congresses. Results were assessed for relevance by two reviewers. The review was part of a larger overview evaluating the impact of adherence and persistence on a range of clinical and economic outcomes; only findings from the cost element are reported herein. Results A total of 4,662 de-duplicated abstracts were identified and 110 studies included in the wider review. Of these, 19 reported an association between adherence (n=13), persistence (n=5), or adherence and persistence (n=1), and health care costs. All studies were retrospective, with sample sizes ranging from 301 to 740,195. Medication possession ratio was the most commonly employed adherence measure (n=11). The majority of adherence studies (n=9) reported that medication adherence was associated with lower total health care costs. Pharmacy costs were often increased in adherent patients but this was offset by beneficial effects on other costs. Findings were more variable in persistence studies; three reported that higher pharmacy costs in persistent patients were not sufficiently offset by savings in other areas to result in a reduction in total health care costs. Conclusions Few studies have evaluated the relationship between adherence, persistence, and health care costs in T2DM. However, it has been consistently shown that medication nonadherence increases health care costs, suggesting that cost savings from better adherence could be substantial. Available data support the economic case for identification of strategies that facilitate improved medication adherence in patients with T2DM.

Shared decision-making for biologic treatment of autoimmune disease: influence on adherence, persistence, satisfaction, and health care costs.

Abstract: BACKGROUND Shared decision-making (SDM), a process whereby physicians and patients collaborate to select interventions, is not well understood for biologic treatment of autoimmune conditions. METHODS This was a cross-sectional survey of adults initiating treatment for Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis (inflammatory bowel disease, IBD) or psoriatic arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis (RA/PA). Survey data were linked to administrative claims for 6 months before (baseline) and after (follow-up) therapy initiation. Measures included the Shared Decision Making Questionnaire, Patient Activation Measure (PAM), Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS), general health, and treatment satisfaction. Claims-based Quan-Charlson comorbidity scores, persistence, medication possession ratio (MPR), and health care costs were examined. Patients were compared by participation (SDM) and nonparticipation (non-SDM) in SDM. RESULTS Among 453 respondents, 357 were eligible, and 306 patients (204 RA/PA and 102 IBD) were included in all analyses. Overall (n=357), SDM participants (n=120) were more often females (75.0% vs 62.5%, P=0.018), had lower health status (48.0 vs 55.4, P=0.005), and higher Quan-Charlson scores (1.0 vs 0.7, P=0.035) than non-SDM (n=237) participants. Lower MMAS scores (SDM 0.17 vs non-SDM 0.41; P<0.05) indicated greater likelihood of adherence; SDM participants also reported higher satisfaction with medication and had greater activation (PAM: SDM vs non-SDM: 66.9 vs 61.6; P<0.001). Mean MPR did not differ, but persistence was longer among SDM participants (111.2 days vs 102.2 days for non-SDM; P=0.029). Costs did not differ by SDM status overall, or among patients with RA/PA. The patients with IBD, however, experienced lower (P=0.003) total costs ($9,404 for SDM vs $25,071 for non-SDM) during follow-up. CONCLUSION This study showed greater likelihood of adherence and satisfaction for patients who engaged in SDM and reduced health care costs among patients with IBD who engaged in SDM. This study provides a basis for defining SDM participation and detecting differences by SDM participation for biologic treatment selection for autoimmune conditions.

Adherence to recommended lifestyle modifications and factors associated for hypertensive patients attending chronic follow-up units of selected public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Abstract: Introduction One of the most prevalent noncommunicable diseases is hypertension (HTN). The availability of effective antihypertensive medications does not result in the expected outcomes in terms of controlling blood pressure. The rationale for these and other findings of uncontrolled HTN points toward poor adherence. The most neglected causes of uncontrolled HTN are unhealthy lifestyles. Few studies have been conducted to show the gap and magnitude of self-management adherence. Objective This study aimed to assess adherence to recommended lifestyle modifications of hypertensive patients undergoing follow-up at chronic follow-up units of public health hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2016. Methods Institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted in four public health hospitals which were selected by drawing lots. Systematic random sampling was used to select study subjects. The results of the descriptive statistics were expressed as percentages and frequencies. Associations between lifestyle modification and independent variables were ana-lyzed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis. The study was conducted from February 15, 2016 to April 15, 2016. Results The study included 404 respondents with a 97% response rate; 210 (52%) were male and the mean age was 54.00±10.77 years. The respondents' adherence to lifestyle modifications was 23%. The lifestyle adherence was found to be better in females, patients who had comorbidities, and had been knowledgeable about the disease and was poor among young adult respondents. Conclusion The rates of adherence to lifestyle changes were generally found to be low. Educational sessions that especially focus on lifestyle modifications and ongoing support for patients should be designed and studies which assess all the components of self-management should be conducted for comparison among different subgroups.

Assessment of quality of life, satisfaction with anticoagulation therapy, and adherence to treatment in patients receiving long-course vitamin K antagonists or direct oral anticoagulants for venous thromboembolism.

Abstract: Introduction Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have shown non-inferiority and ease of use compared to vitamin K antagonists (VKA) in the treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE). No study so far has been directed toward real-life experience of outpatients receiving anticoagulants for VTE in France. Methods This is an observational descriptive real-life epidemiological study, using three validated questionnaires (Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-8, EQ-5D, and part 2 of the Perception of Anticoagulant Treatment Questionnaire), to assess adherence, quality of life, and satisfaction in 100 VTE outpatients receiving anticoagulation therapy by VKA (primary or switched from DOAC to VKA) or by DOAC (primary or switched from VKA to DOAC). Results Patients were very much satisfied with their treatment in both DOAC and VKA groups. Despite advantages of DOACs, therapeutic adherence was only moderate. The best adherence scores were observed in the primary VKA switched to DOAC for at least 3 months (S-DOAC) subgroup. Quality of life was better in the DOAC group mainly because of the absence of the requirement for blood testing. Most of the complaints concerned the pain/discomfort dimension in the VKA group and anxiety/depression dimension in the DOAC group. Conclusion Patients were satisfied with their anticoagulant treatment, especially when they were involved in choosing the anticoagulant, and the treatment suited them. Quality of life of patients in the DOAC group was better than in the VKA group, but adherence remains to be improved. This study highlights the importance of the physician-patient relationship, pretreatment initiation, and follow-up of any anticoagulation therapy throughout.

Questioning patient engagement: research scientists' perceptions of the challenges of patient engagement in a cardiovascular research network.

Abstract: BACKGROUND Patient engagement in research is a dominant discourse in clinical research settings as it is seen as a move toward sustainable and equitable health care systems. In Canada, a key driver is the Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, which asserts that meaningful patient engagement can only be fostered when stakeholders understand its value. This study assessed researchers' perceptions of the meaning and value of patient engagement in research within a Canadian cardiovascular research network. In doing so, the secondary aim was to inform the development of a structured patient engagement initiative by identifying potential challenges and related mitigation strategies. METHODS We employed a multi-method strategy involving electronic surveys and semi-structured telephone interviews with network research scientists across Canada. Interview data were analyzed using thematic and content analysis. Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS Thirty-eight electronic surveys (response rate =33%) and 16 interviews were completed with network members. Some participants were uncertain about the meaning and value of patient engagement. While voicing guarded support, four challenges relating to patient engagement were identified from the interviews: 1) identification of representative and appropriate patients, 2) uncertainty about the scope of patients' roles given concerns about knowledge discrepancies, 3) a perceived lack of evidence of the impact of patient engagement, and 4) the need for education and culture change as a prerequisite for patient engagement. Research scientists were largely concerned that patients untrained in science and tasked with conveying an authentic patient experience and being a conduit for the voices of others might unsettle a traditional model of conducting research. CONCLUSION Concerns about patient involvement in research were related to a lack of clarity about the meaning, process, and impact of involvement. This study highlights the need for education on the meaning of patient engagement, evidence of its impact, and guidance on practical aspects of implementation within this research community.

Comparison of three types of central venous catheters in patients with malignant tumor receiving chemotherapy

Abstract: BACKGROUND Central venous catheters (CVCs) have been an effective access for chemotherapy instead of peripherally intravenous catheters. There were limited studies on the choices and effects of different types of CVCs for chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to compare the complications, cost, and patients' quality of life and satisfaction of three commonly used CVCs for chemotherapy, such as implanted venous port, peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs), and external non-tunneled central venous catheters (NTCs). METHODS A double-center prospective cohort study was carried out from March 2014 to December 2016. Catheterization situation, complications, catheter maintenance, cost, and patients' quality of life and satisfaction were recorded, investigated, and analyzed. Forty-five ports, 60 PICCs and 40 NTCs were included. All the CVCs were followed up to catheter removal. RESULTS There was no statistical difference in catheterization success rates between port and PICC. NTC had less success rate by one puncture compared with port. Ports had fewer complications compared with PICCs and NTCs. The complication rates of ports, PICCs and NTCs were 2.2%, 40%, and 27.5%, respectively. If the chemotherapy process was <12 months, NTCs cost least, and the cost of port was much higher than PICC and NTC. When the duration time was longer than 12 months, the cost of port had no difference with the cost of PICC. Quality of life and patients' satisfaction of port group were significantly higher than the other two groups. CONCLUSION Although port catheterization costs more and needs professional medical staff and strict operational conditions, ports have fewer complications and higher quality of life and patients' satisfaction than PICCs and NTCs. Therefore, not following consideration of the economic factor, we recommend port as a safe and an effective chemotherapy access for cancer patients, especially for whom needing long chemotherapy process.

Treatment approaches and adherence to urate-lowering therapy for patients with gout.

Abstract: Gout is the most common inflammatory arthritis characterized by painful disabling acute attacks. It is caused by hyperuricemia and deposition of urate crystals in and around the joints. Long-standing untreated hyperuricemia can lead to chronic arthritis with joint damage, tophi formation and urate nephropathy. Gout is associated with significant morbidity and health care associated cost. The goal of long-term therapy is to lower the serum urate level to promote dissolution of urate crystals, reduce recurrent acute gout flares, resolve tophi and prevent joint damage. Despite the presence of established gout treatment guidelines and effective medications to manage gout, patient outcomes are often poor. Etiology for these shortcomings is multifactorial including both physician and patient characteristics. Poor adherence to urate-lowering therapy (ULT) is prevalent and is a significant contributor to poor patient outcomes. This article reviews the treatment strategies for the management of hyperuricemia in chronic gout, gaps in quality of care in gout management, factors contributing to poor adherence to ULT and discusses potential interventions to achieve improved gout-related outcomes. These interventions include initiation of prophylactic anti-inflammatory medication when starting ULT, frequent follow-ups, regular serum urate monitoring and improved patient education, which can be achieved through pharmacist- or nurse-assisted programs. Interventions such as these could improve adherence to ULT and, ultimately, result in optimal gout-related outcomes.

Assessing physician and patient acceptance of infliximab biosimilars in rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondyloarthritis and psoriatic arthritis across Germany

Abstract: Objectives We examined rheumatologists' motivation for prescribing biosimilars, assessed their treatment preferences in relation to prescribing behavior and explored patient attitudes to biosimilars. Methods Data were taken from the Adelphi Real World Biosimilars Programme, a real-world, cross-sectional study undertaken with German rheumatologists and patients with rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondyloarthritis or psoriatic arthritis in 2015-2016. Rheumatologists provided data on their prescribing behavior and attitudes toward biosimilars and invited the next eight eligible consecutive consulting patients to complete a questionnaire. Rheumatologists were split into "investigative", "conservative" and "other" groups. Results Overall, 50 rheumatologists and 261 patients participated. Biosimilars accounted for 95% of rheumatologists would prescribe a biooriginator rather than biosimilar as the first- or second-line therapy if unrestricted. Patients showed some reluctance to accept biosimilars, and a small proportion of patients were unhappy when switched from a biooriginator to a biosimilar. Satisfaction with treatment was highest in patients who started treatment with a biooriginator prior to biosimilar availability. Patient concerns when starting treatment with a biooriginator or a biosimilar included not knowing enough about the drug (25%-41%), potential side effects (26%-32%) and potential long-term problems (19%-30%). Conclusion Study results demonstrate that there is some reluctance from patients to accept biosimilars and the need to educate patients who are unsure to allow them to be involved in decision making, highlighting the importance of patient and physician communication. There remains a need for further research into nonclinical switching and the long-term impact of prescribing biosimilars.

Effect of pharmaceutical care on clinical outcomes of outpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Abstract: Background In the People's Republic of China, outpatients have limited time with their physicians. Thus, compared to inpatients, outpatients have lower medication adherence and are less knowledgeable about their disease. Objective The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of pharmaceutical care on clinical outcomes of outpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Patients and methods A randomized, controlled, prospective clinical trial was conducted recruiting a total of 240 T2DM outpatients from Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University. The control group (CG) received only common care from medical staff, whereas the inter vention group (IG) received extra pharmaceutical care from clinical pharmacists. Biochemical data such as blood pressure (BP), fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycosylated hemoglobin A1 (HbA1c), and blood lipid were collected before and after 6-month intervention. The primary end points in this study were FBG and HbA1c. Results After the intervention, most of the baseline clinical outcomes of the patients in IG significantly improved, while only body mass index, diastolic BP, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and total cholesterol (TC) improved significantly in patients in the CG. Compared to CG, in IG, there were significant improvements in FBG, HbA1c, TC, the target attainment rates of HbA1c, and BP. Conclusion Pharmaceutical care provided by clinical pharmacists could improve the control of diabetes of outpatients, and clinical pharmacists could play an important role in diabetes management.

Healthcare provider relational quality is associated with better self-management and less treatment burden in people with multiple chronic conditions.

Abstract: PURPOSE Having multiple chronic conditions (MCCs) can lead to appreciable treatment and self-management burden Healthcare provider relational quality (HPRQ) - the communicative and interpersonal skill of the provider - may mitigate treatment burden and promote self-management The objectives of this study were to 1) identify the associations between HPRQ, treatment burden, and psychosocial outcomes in adults with MCCs, and 2) determine if certain indicators of HPRQ are more strongly associated than others with these outcomes PATIENTS AND METHODS This is a cross-sectional survey study of 332 people with MCCs Patients completed a 7-item measure of HPRQ and measures of treatment and self-management burden, chronic condition distress, self-efficacy, provider satisfaction, medication adherence, and physical and mental health Associations between HPRQ, treatment burden, and psychosocial outcomes were determined using correlational analyses and independent samples t-tests, which were repeated in item-level analyses to explore which indicators of HPRQ were most strongly associated with the outcomes RESULTS Most respondents (69%) were diagnosed with ≥3 chronic conditions Better HPRQ was found to be associated with less treatment and self-management burden and better psychosocial outcomes (P<0001), even after controlling for physical and mental health Those reporting 100% adherence to prescribed medications had higher HPRQ scores than those reporting less than perfect adherence (P<0001) HPRQ items showing the strongest associations with outcomes were "my healthcare provider spends enough time with me", "my healthcare provider listens carefully to me", and "I have trust in my healthcare provider" CONCLUSION Good communication and interpersonal skills of healthcare providers may lessen feelings of treatment burden and empower patients to feel confident in their self-management Patient trust in the provider is an important element of HPRQ Educating healthcare providers about the importance of interpersonal and relational skills could lead to more patient-centered care

An upper and lower bound of the Medication Possession Ratio.

Abstract: Background The Medication Possession Ratio (MPR) is a ubiquitous and central measurement for adherence in the health care industry. However, attempts to standardize its calculation have failed, possibly due to the opacity of a single, static MPR, incapability of directly lending itself to a variety of studies, and challenges of comparing the value across studies. This work shows that the MPR strictly depends on the length of the time interval over which it is measured as well as on the dominant dispense quantity for short time intervals. Furthermore, removing a proportion of the patient cohort based on the number of acquisitions may also have a severe impact on the MPR. Therefore, it is suggested that the MPR is represented as a trend over a range of time intervals. To this end, an upper and lower bound of the MPR trend is developed with an upper bound acknowledging patients who change their treatment and the lower bound acknowledging patients who discontinue their treatment. Purpose Introducing a representation of the MPR value as a trend rather than a static number by developing a quantitative description of an upper and lower bound of the MPR trend, while shedding light on the impacts on prefiltering the patient cohort. Patients and methods Anonymized patient-level data was utilized as an example for a suggested calculation of an upper and lower bound of the MPR. Results Representation of the MPR for a predefined time interval precludes a reliable MPR assessment. A quantitative approach is suggested to generate an upper and lower trend of the MPR while emphasizing the impact on removing patients with a limited number of acquisitions. Conclusion An upper and lower trend makes the MPR more transparent and allows a better comparison across different studies. Removing patients with a limited number of acquisitions should be avoided.

Accountability: a missing construct in models of adherence behavior and in clinical practice.

Abstract: Piano lessons, weekly laboratory meetings, and visits to health care providers have in common an accountability that encourages people to follow a specified course of action. The accountability inherent in the social interaction between a patient and a health care provider affects patients' motivation to adhere to treatment. Nevertheless, accountability is a concept not found in adherence models, and is rarely employed in typical medical practice, where patients may be prescribed a treatment and not seen again until a return appointment 8-12 weeks later. The purpose of this paper is to describe the concept of accountability and to incorporate accountability into an existing adherence model framework. Based on the Self-Determination Theory, accountability can be considered in a spectrum from a paternalistic use of duress to comply with instructions (controlled accountability) to patients' autonomous internal desire to please a respected health care provider (autonomous accountability), the latter expected to best enhance long-term adherence behavior. Existing adherence models were reviewed with a panel of experts, and an accountability construct was incorporated into a modified version of Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory. Defining accountability and incorporating it into an adherence model will facilitate the development of measures of accountability as well as the testing and refinement of adherence interventions that make use of this critical determinant of human behavior.

Psychometric properties of the Ruminative Response Scale-short form in a clinical sample of patients with major depressive disorder

Abstract: Background The Ruminative Response Scale (RRS)-short form is one of the most widely used measures of rumination, comprising ten items and two components: reflection and brooding. The aim of this study was to investigate RRS validity and reliability in a clinical sample of French patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Subjects and methods Outpatients with a DSM-IV-TR diagnosis of MDD were recruited from a public academic hospital in France. Depressive symptoms were evaluated by the Beck Depression Inventory, anxiety by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory - state scale, and quality of life by the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) questionnaire. Confirmatory factor analyses, item-dimension correlations, Cronbach's α-coefficients, Rasch statistics, and external validity were tested. Differential item functioning analyses were performed for sex. Results A total of 109 patients participated. The final reflection-brooding two-factor model of the RRS showed a good fit (root-mean-square error of approximation 0.041, comparative fit index 0.987, standardized root-mean-square residual 0.048) after removing one item (daily diary writing). Internal item consistency and reliability were satisfactory for the two dimensions. External validity testing confirmed that RRS scores were correlated with Beck Depression Inventory, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and SF-36 scores. There was no differential item functioning across sexes. Conclusion These results demonstrated good scale reliability and validity for assessing rumination in patients with MDD.

Adherence in ulcerative colitis: an overview.

Abstract: Medication adherence is an important challenge while treating chronic illnesses, such as ulcerative colitis (UC), that require a long-term management to induce and maintain clinical remission. This review provides an overview of the role that medication adherence plays in the routine management of UC, with a focus on the results of a recent Italian study reporting the perception of patients with UC regarding adherence to treatment. A literature analysis was conducted on topics, such as measurement of adherence in real practice, causes, risk factors and consequences of non-adherence and strategies, to raise patients' adherence. Most of the data refer to adherence to 5-aminosalicylic acid, and standard of care for the induction and maintenance of remission in UC. The adherence rate to 5-aminosalicylic acid is low in clinical practice, thus resulting in fivefold higher risk of relapse, likely increased risk of colorectal cancer, reduced quality of life and higher health care costs for in- and outpatient settings. There are various causes affecting non-adherence to therapy: forgetfulness, high cost of drugs, lack of understanding of the drug regimen - which are sometimes due to insufficient explanation by the specialist - anxiety created by possible adverse events, lack of confidence in physicians' judgment and complex dosing regimen. The last aspect negatively influences adherence to medication both in clinical trial settings and in real-world practice. Regarding this feature, mesalamine in once-daily dosage may be preferable to medications with multiple doses per day because the simplification of treatment regimens improves adherence.

Validation of an instrument to measure patients’ experiences of medicine use: the Living with Medicines Questionnaire

Abstract: Background: Medicine-related burden is an increasingly recognised concept, stemming from the rising tide of polypharmacy, which may impact on patient behaviours, including non-adherence. No instruments currently exist which specifically measure medicine-related burden. The Living with Medicines Questionnaire was developed for this purpose. Objectives: This study validated the Living with Medicines Questionnaire in a sample of adults using regular prescription medicines in the UK. Methods: Questionnaires were distributed in community pharmacies and public places in south-east England, or online via UK health websites and social media. A total of 1177 were returned 507 (43.1%) from pharmacy distribution and 670 (56.9%) on-line. Construct validity was assessed by principal components analysis and item reduction undertaken on the original 60-item pool. Known-groups analysis assessed differences in mean total scores between participants using different numbers of medicines and those requiring assistance with medicine use. Internal consistency was assessed by Cronbach’s alpha. Free-text comments were analysed thematically to substantiate underlying dimensions. Results: A 42-item, 8-factor, structure, comprising inter-correlated dimensions (patient-doctor relationships and communication about medicines; patient-pharmacist communication about medicines; interferences to daily life; practical difficulties; effectiveness; acceptance of medicine use; autonomy/control over medicines; and concerns about medicine use) was derived, which explained 57.4% of the total variation. Six of the eight subscales have acceptable internal consistency (? > 0.7). More positive experiences were observed among patients using eight or fewer medicines compared to nine or more, and those independent with managing/using their medicines versus those requiring assistance. Free-text comments, provided by almost a third of respondents, supported the domains identified. Conclusions: The resultant Living with Medicines Questionnaire (LMQ-2) is a valid and reliable multidimensional measure of prescription medicine use experiences, which covers more diverse domains than existing questionnaires. However, further validation work is necessary.

Quality of life assessment in patients with alopecia areata and androgenetic alopecia in the People’s Republic of China

Abstract: Introduction In medical terms, alopecia is considered a relatively mild dermatological condition that nevertheless is a serious condition, but it causes major depression in many sufferers. Alopecia areata (AA) and androgenetic alopecia (AGA) are the main types of hair loss. This study assessed the quality of life (QoL) of Chinese patients with AA and AGA using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire. Methods A total of 178 AA and AGA patients were enrolled in this study, and DLQI was used to evaluate the QoL of the patients. The DLQI used 10 items regarding symptoms and feelings, daily activities, leisure, work and school, personal relationships, and treatment as dimensions of life. Each was scored on a 0-3 scale. The total DLQI score equaled 0-30; higher scores showed greater impact on QoL. Results The DLQI scores of the 178 patients ranged from 0 to 28, with a mean score of 6.3. Higher DLQI scores were reported by younger patients (P 12 months (P Conclusion AA and AGA moderately affected the QoL of the patients. A higher DLQI score was significantly associated with younger age, hair loss for a duration of >12 months, and AA. Both AA and AGA moderately affected the QoL of the patients not only in physiological aspects but also in their emotional and social aspects. The bio-psycho-social aspects of disease need to be addressed in patients with AA and AGA, even though these conditions are not life-threatening.

Quality of life in overweight (obese) and normal-weight women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Abstract: Objective Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by phenotypic heterogeneity and has a wide variety of consequences. Approximately half of women with PCOS are overweight or obese, and their obesity may be a contributing factor to PCOS pathogenesis through different mechanisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate if PCOS alone affects the patients' quality of life and to what extent obesity contributes to worsen this disease. Design To evaluate the impact of PCOS on health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL), 100 Mediterranean women with PCOS (group A), 50 with a body mass index (BMI) >25 kg/m2 (group A1) and 50 with BMI Results Our results showed a considerable worsening of HRQoL in PCOS patients (A) compared with controls (B). In addition, patients with PCOS and BMI >25 (A1) showed a significant and more marked reduction in scores, suggesting a lower quality of life, compared with controls (B) and with normal-weight PCOS patients (A2). Conclusion PCOS is a complex disease that alone determines a deterioration of HRQoL. The innovative use of these psychometric questionnaires in this study, in particular the PCOS questionnaire, has highlighted that obesity has a negative effect on HRQoL. It follows that a weight decrease is associated to phenotypic spectrum improvement and relative decrement in psychological distress.

A randomized trial of individual versus group-format exercise and self-management in individuals with Parkinson’s disease and comorbid depression

Abstract: BACKGROUND Depression is common in people with Parkinson's disease (PD), and exercise is known to improve depression and PD However, lack of motivation and low self-efficacy can make exercise difficult for people with PD and comorbid depression (PD-Dep) A combined group exercise and chronic disease self-management (CDSM) program may improve the likeli-hood that individuals will engage in exercise and will show a reduction in depression symptoms The purpose of this study was to compare changes in depression in PD-Dep between individual versus group exercise plus CDSM and to examine participant adherence and perception of the interventions METHODS Participants (N=30) were randomized to either Enhanced EXerCisE thErapy for PD (EXCEED; group CDSM and exercise) or self-guided CDSM plus exercise Outcomes were change in depression assessed with the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), cognition, apathy, anxiety, sleep, quality of life, motor function, self-efficacy, and patient satisfaction RESULTS Both groups showed significant improvement in MADRS (P<0001) with no significant group difference Individuals in EXCEED group enjoyed the group dynamics but noted difficulty with the fixed-time sessions CONCLUSION Both group CDSM plus exercise and self-guided CDSM plus exercise can improve depression in PD-Dep These findings suggest that development of a remotely delivered group-based CDSM format plus manualized exercise program could be useful for this population

Health-related quality of life in patients with chronic hepatitis B during antiviral treatment and off-treatment.

Abstract: Introduction Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) has emerged as an important consideration in the care of patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). However, whether benefits from the improved HRQoL that occurs after antiviral treatment or drug discontinuation outweigh the risks of viral relapse is an unanswered question. The aim of this study was to evaluate the HRQoL among patients with CHB during antiviral treatment and withdrawal of treatment. Patients and methods There were 102 patients who met the enrollment criteria with 54 patients in the treatment group and 48 patients in the discontinuation group. Sociodemographic information was collected. The 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions, and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) were adopted to evaluate life quality and mental health. Results In the treatment group, SF-36 showed that the physical functions were significantly increased. In the discontination group, the psychological functions showed improvement. A multivariate regression analysis indicated that baseline SF-36 score was a predictor for improvement in HRQoL (odds ratio =1.17, P=0.003) and baseline BDI score was a factor for remission of depression (odds ratio =0.75, P=0.005) after medical intervention. When the cutoff value of SF-36 score was set at 79.5, the sensitivity and specificity to predict improvement in HRQoL were 82.8% and 74.0%, respectively. When the cutoff value of BDI was found as 8.5, the sensitivity and specificity to predict alleviation of depression were 58.6%, and 76.0%, respectively. Conclusion Antiviral treatment benefits the physical health of the patients with CHB, while conferring no obvious improvement in their psychological condition. Improved psychological interventions for patients with CHB, especially for those with lower baseline SF-36 scores and higher BDI scores, may improve their quality of life.

mHealth intervention to support asthma self-management in adolescents: the ADAPT study.

Abstract: Purpose Poor medication adherence in adolescents with asthma results in poorly controlled disease and increased morbidity. The aim of the ADolescent Adherence Patient Tool (ADAPT) study is to develop an mHealth intervention to support self-management and to evaluate the effectiveness in improving medication adherence and asthma control. Intervention The ADAPT intervention consists of an interactive smartphone application (app) connected to a desktop application for health care providers, in this study, the community pharmacist. The app contains several functions to improve adherence as follows: 1) a questionnaire function to rate asthma symptoms and monitor these over time; 2) short movie clips with medication and disease information; 3) a medication reminder; 4) a chat function with peers; 5) a chat function with the pharmacist. The pharmacist receives data from the patient’s app through the desktop application, which enables the pharmacist to send information and feedback to the patient. Study design The ADAPT intervention is tested in a community pharmacy-based cluster randomized controlled trial in the Netherlands, aiming to include 352 adolescents with asthma. The main outcome is adherence, measured by patient’s self-report and refill adherence calculated from pharmacy dispensing records. In addition, asthma control, illness perceptions, medication beliefs, and asthma-related quality of life are measured. Conclusion This study will provide in-depth knowledge on the effectiveness of an mHealth intervention to support asthma self-management in adolescents. These insights will also be useful for adolescents with other chronic diseases. (aut. ref.)

The impact of quality of life on treatment preferences in multiple sclerosis patients.

Abstract: Introduction Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a demyelinating disorder with an unpredictable and often disabling course. MS symptoms are very heterogeneous and may lead to reduced physical, cognitive, and psychosocial functioning decreasing patients' quality of life (QoL). Today, various disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) may prevent disease progression. However, it is increasingly complex to select the right therapy for a given patient and patient preferences should be considered when making treatment decisions. This study aimed to explore the main factors affecting patients' preferences regarding MS treatment and health care. Methods Five qualitative focus group interviews were carried out with a total of 40 participants from across Denmark. A semistructured question guide included questions that were identified in a systematic literature study about QoL and treatment preferences in patients with MS. The participants were asked to describe their disease experiences, their health-related QoL, and reasons behind their preferences with regard to treatment and care. The data were analyzed using content analysis and a constructivist approach. Results The participants' physical, cognitive, and psychosocial QoL and functioning were reduced by disease symptoms, treatment side effects, and mode of administration. Their ability to uphold meaningful role functioning was crucial to their treatment priorities. The preeminence of anticipated efficacy, ie, the patients' hope that DMT might prevent disease deterioration in the future, was modified by their present QoL and functioning when ultimately framing their treatment preferences. There was an unmet information and support need from neurology clinics, particularly at the time of diagnosis. Conclusion The participants' treatment preferences were influenced by a matrix of treatment and QoL-related factors and evolved with time and along with personal and professional changes in life. The patients preferred to receive a clear recommendation of DMT from the neurologist taking into account their individual functioning and present QoL priorities.

Medication adherence has an impact on disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE Disease activity of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients was often measured by the 28-joint count disease activity score (DAS-28), which consists of 28 swollen and tender joint counts, patient's assessment of disease activity (visual analog scale [VAS]) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. C-reactive protein was also used to measure disease activity in RA patients. The aim was to explore the impact of medication adherence on disease activity in patients with RA. METHODS A systematic search was performed in major electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP and Wan fang) to identify studies reporting medication adherence and disease activity in RA patients. Results were expressed as mean difference (MD) and 95% CI. RESULTS A total of seven identified studies matched the inclusion criteria, reporting on a total of 1,963 adult RA patients in the analysis. The total score of DAS-28 was significantly lower in adherent patients than in nonadherent subjects (MD =-0.42, 95% CI [-0.80, -0.03], P=0.03). Similarly, a significant difference was observed between medication adherent and nonadherent groups in erythrocyte sedimentation rate (MD =-7.39, 95% CI [-11.69, -3.08], P<0.01) and tender joint count (MD =-1.29, 95% CI [-2.51, -0.06], P=0.04). Interestingly, the results of the meta-analysis showed no significant difference between medication adherent and nonadherent patients in swollen joint count (MD =-0.16, 95% CI [-2.13, 1.80], P=0.87), visual analog scale (MD =1.41, 95% CI [-3.68, 6.50], P=0.59) and C-reactive protein (MD =0.35, 95% CI [-0.64, 1.34], P=0.49). CONCLUSION The study suggests that RA patients with higher medication adherence tended to have lower disease activity.

Insulin adherence and persistence among Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes: a retrospective database analysis.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE To assess adherence and persistence to insulin therapy and identify its associated factors among Chinese insulin-naive patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). METHODS Tianjin Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance claims database was used (2008-2011). Adult patients with T2D who initiated insulin therapy during January 2009 through December 2010 and were continuously enrolled for 12 months pre-(baseline) and 12 months post-initiation (follow-up) were included. Patients who had a ≥80% medication possession ratio were deemed adherent, while patients who had no gaps of ≥90 days in insulin therapy were deemed persistent. Associated factors of insulin adherence and persistence were detected by univariate and multivariate analyses. RESULTS A total of 24,192 patients were included; the patients had a mean age of 58.9 years, with 49.5% being female. About 51.9% of the patients had human insulin as initiation therapy, while 39.1% were initiated with insulin analog and 9.0% with animal-derived insulin. Premixed insulin (77.3%) was prescribed most often in comparison with basal (11.8%) and prandial (10.9%) insulin. Only 30.9% of patients were adherent, and the mean (standard deviation) medication possession ratio was 0.499 (0.361). About 53.0% of patients persisted insulin therapy during follow-up, and the mean time to nonpersistence was 230.3 (145.5) days. Patients initiated with analog were more likely to be adherent (adjusted odds ratio: 1.07, P=0.036) and persistent (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.88, P<0.001) compared with those initiated with human insulin. Patients initiation with basal insulin had lower adherence relative to premixed (adjusted odds ratio: 0.79, P<0.001). Patients comorbid with hypertension or dyslipidemia, initiated with prandial insulin, and with baseline severe hypoglycemic events were more likely to be nonadherent/nonpersistent. CONCLUSION The insulin adherence and persistence among Chinese patients with T2D are generally poor. Initiation with insulin analog or premixed insulin may result in better adherence/persistence to insulin therapy.