What is meant by "medication adherence"?

Medication adherence refers to the extent to which patients take their medications as prescribed by their healthcare providers. This concept emphasizes not only the act of obtaining medications but also the critical need for patients to follow the dosage, timing, and frequency recommended in their treatment plans. Adherence is essential for ensuring that the medications achieve their intended effects and contribute to optimal health outcomes.

Understanding adherence is paramount, as non-adherence can lead to treatment failures and increased health care costs. By concentrating on this definition, healthcare professionals can develop interventions to improve adherence, enhancing patient care quality and therapeutic effectiveness.