Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting millions of people and is characterized by increased blood glucose levels. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes require diligent management. This includes medication adherence.
What is medication adherence? It is the extent to which patients take their medication as prescribed. Studies from the National Institute of Health indicate adherence to diabetic medications ranges from 38.5% to 93.1%.
This wide range is unacceptable. For diabetics, adherence is essential to maintaining optimal glucose levels to prevent short-term complications such as hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) which can lead to long-term complications such as neuropathy, retinopathy, and cardiovascular issues.
This article will explore factors impacting adherence and provide tips and strategies to improve compliance.
Factors Influencing Medication Adherence in Diabetic Patients
I am first to raise my hand because I don’t take my medication as directed 100% of the time.
If there were pain involved with diabetes early on, diabetics would take their medication as instructed. Ponder that. The disadvantage to not taking our medication is hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and a host of bad complications as the disease progresses.
Understanding the factors that impact medication adherence is crucial for developing effective interventions. These factors can be categorized as patient-related, medication-related, and healthcare system-related.
Patient Related
- Age and socioeconomic status. Education, income, less financial strain, and being employed were each associated with better medication adherence.
- Health literacy and diabetes knowledge. You can significantly improve your outcome with diabetes if you increase your knowledge of this disease. Reading this newsletter and other literature can increase your health literacy. Regular visits with your doctor can help reinforce this knowledge.
- Psychological factors. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, or stress? You should be screened regularly for mental health issues by your healthcare team. . Mental health issues can make it hard to stick to your plan. If you have depression seek out professional help, and if you are experiencing anxiety, and stress try the exercises listed here. Mental health issues must be resolved.
- How do you feel about your diabetes? Some patients may not fully accept their diagnosis, which may lead to inconsistent medication use.
Medication Related
- Medication side effects can discourage you from taking your medication as prescribed. This is when your health care team has to get involved.
- Difficulty understanding the medication regiment. Understand the full details about your medication dosing.
- Talk to your health care team about prescribing long acting medications that require less dosing.
- Considering the use of insulin pens or pumps for easier administration.
- I use a pill organizer. Some use a phone app to send alerts/reminders to take your medication and track your intake. For me, sitting the pills on the counter, and I see them, is a good reminder. Find a system that works for you and use it.
- Do you need a pill crusher or splitter?
- Involving family members or caregivers in the medication management process can provide additional support, and be a reminder to take your medication.
- The cost of medications can be a significant barrier for many patients.
- Use Good RX for up to 80% discounts.
- Is your pharmacy accessible? If not talk to your doctor about a 90-day supply through mail order.
- Ask your doctor to prescribe generic medications.
- Patient assistance programs. If you are on Medicare and have part D and require help paying for your drugs, click here.
- Click this link for information about low-cost or free medication.
- Investigate your insurance plan to understand coverage for your medications.
Health-Care System Related
Effective communication between healthcare providers and patients is crucial for improving adherence:
- Ask your doctor for a written report of your visit.
- If you have a system like My Chart. Get logged in. Use this system to communicate with your doctor and keep track of your health records.
- Express fearlessly your concerns about your medication.
- Regular appointments allow providers to monitor your progress and adjust medication regimens as needed.
Conclusion:
A good medication regimen is important for managing diabetes and preventing complications.
By understanding the barriers and employing effective strategies, diabetic patients can improve their adherence and overall health.
Regular consultations with healthcare providers, education, and support from family and caregivers are keys for successful medication adherence and an effective outcome.
Resources:
Medicare part D drug assistance plan
HWB
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