Abstract
The purpose of this project was to evaluate the impact of a comprehensive medication adherence packaging (RxMAP) service on patient medication-taking behaviors and patient-centered outcomes. Adult patients who utilized a single independent community pharmacy, enrolled in the RxMAP service for at least two consecutive cycles, and managed their own medications were eligible. The RxMAP service consists of multi-dose blister packaging in 28-day cycles, medication synchronization, monthly touchpoint calls, and delivery/mailing. A 13-item telephonic survey was administered, and patients’ verbal responses were captured by audio-recording and detailed note taking. Descriptive statistics were used to quantify the results and illustrative quotes representing the interview domains were selected. There were 42 patients who completed the survey: 88% reported they missed fewer doses compared to before using RxMAP; 71% were more likely to take their medications on time each day; 86% were more confident with managing their medications; and 74% were more independent. Finally, 64% of patients stated their overall quality of life was better now compared to before using the packaging service. These results demonstrate that medication adherence packaging services can positively impact patients’ medication-taking behaviors, increase their confidence in medication management, and improve perceived quality of life.
Highlights
Medication adherence plays an important role in the prevention and effective management of many chronic medical conditions
The RxMAP service consists of multi-dose blister packaging in 28-day cycles, medication synchronization, monthly touchpoint telephone calls with patients, coordination of care between healthcare providers and case managers, and delivery/mailing
The results provide new evidence that a patient’s ability to remember to take medication regimens, confidence in managing medications, independence, and perceived quality of life were all positively impacted by the adherence packaging service
Summary
Medication adherence plays an important role in the prevention and effective management of many chronic medical conditions. Medication nonadherence continues to be a significant problem in healthcare, contributing to morbidity, mortality, and avoidable healthcare costs [1,2,3]. Factors affecting medication adherence are complex but can be broadly categorized as either intentional or unintentional. Intentional non-adherence occurs when an individual makes a conscious decision, often due to motivation or their beliefs, not to take their medication as prescribed [4]. Medication cost, actual or perceived side effects, and patient beliefs about medication effectiveness are all factors that can lead to intentional nonadherence. Nonadherence related to a person’s ability to take their medication (e.g., difficulty opening a prescription bottle), confusion over their medication regimen, or forgetfulness can be classified as unintentional nonadherence [4]
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