Evaluating Patient Perceptions of Pharmacist-Led Medication Therapy Management in Hypertension Management

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is the primary contributor to cardiovascular diseases worldwide, it affects millions and needs effective management strategies. Pharmacist-led Medication Therapy Management (MTM) is essential in improving medication adherence and optimizing the treatment outcomes for patients suffering from hypertension. Objective: This study aims to evaluate patient perceptions of pharmacist-provided Medication Therapy Management (MTM) services for managing hypertension. Moreover, it evaluates to examine how these perceptions influence patient`s adherence to their prescribed treatment regimens. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study aimed at determining the patients' perceptions on the Medication Therapy Management (MTM) services they receive to control their hypertension. Data from 114 patients was obtained and their perceptions were recorded using the survey instruments. Patients below 20 years were excluded. The data was assessed using the SPSS 24th version. The p-value was ascertained by using the Chi-square test. Results: The study analyzed 114 hypertensive patients predominantly females (63.2%) aged 50 years or above (51.8%). The selection of patients was based on a convenience-stratified strategy. The p-value was ascertained by using the Chi-square test. The majority had been managing hypertension for over a year (88.8%), with 45.6% managing it for 1-5 years. Educational levels varied, and most participants resided in urban areas (75.4%). Awareness of hypertension management was high with 86% of patients recognizing MTM's positive influence on medication adherence. Despite these favorable outcomes, challenges such as medication costs and lifestyle changes were noted, highlighting the need for tailored interventions to improve patient adherence and health outcomes. Conclusion: In conclusion, most hypertensive patients understood how to manage their condition and found Medication Therapy Management (MTM) helpful. MTM improved their medication adherence, reduced side effects, and enhanced their understanding of the treatment, leading to better health outcomes. However, challenges such as medication costs, lifestyle changes, and scheduling conflicts made it harder for patients to fully follow MTM advice. Despite these challenges, MTM played an important role in effectively managing hypertension.