[Therapy compliance. A matter of concern in clinical medicine]

Approximately one half of the patients takes prescribed medications irregularly or omits these altogether. On the basis of our own observations and published reports we analyze the factors influencing compliance. The motivation of the patients plays a decisive role, it is rooted in the meaning the patient gives to his existence, to where the strength of his family bonds and the confidence in the care-taking persons lays as well as the possibility to express himself which is most important. The better guidance and training of the doctors in the difficult task of strengthening such motivation may contribute to substantially improve this situation.