Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 27, 2026

'Boden Food Plate': Novel Interactive Web-based Method for the Assessment of Dietary Intake
Published on: September 18, 2018
Practical and analytic issues in the electronic assessment of adherence
Paul Cook1, Sarah Schmiege, Margaret McClean
1University of Colorado, College of Nursing, 13120 E. 19th Ave., Campus Box C288-04, Aurora, CO 80045, USA. Paul.Cook@ucdenver.edu
Electronic dose monitoring systems, like Medication Event Monitoring Systems (MEMS), offer valid adherence data but require careful use. Researchers should employ strategies like run-in periods and combined measures for accurate medication adherence assessment.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and Pharmaceutics
- Health Services Research
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Medication adherence is crucial for treatment efficacy.
- Electronic monitoring, specifically Medication Event Monitoring Systems (MEMS), is favored over self-reports for accuracy.
- MEMS, despite popularity, present challenges in data collection and interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature and analyze MEMS data to propose best practices for its use.
- To enhance the validity and reliability of electronic monitoring in medication adherence research.
- To address potential limitations and improve the accuracy of MEMS in capturing patient adherence.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on medication adherence measurement.
- Analysis of existing Medication Event Monitoring Systems (MEMS) data.
- Development of recommended strategies for MEMS implementation and data analysis.
Main Results:
- A 1- to 2-month run-in period is suggested to mitigate MEMS reactivity.
- Combining MEMS with other adherence measures is recommended for comprehensive assessment.
- Continuous measurement or defining cutoffs based on medication pharmacology and nonadherence consequences is advised.
- Aggregation of MEMS data (weekly/monthly) and multilevel modeling are proposed for analysis.
- MEMS screening may overlook some patients requiring adherence interventions.
- Strategies to improve data completeness and accuracy include patient training and adequate supplies.
Conclusions:
- Optimizing MEMS usage involves methodological adjustments to enhance data quality.
- Careful implementation and analysis of MEMS data are essential for valid medication adherence research.
- Researchers should consider MEMS limitations and employ complementary strategies for robust adherence assessment.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Therapy
Antianxiety Medications
Measurement of Bioavailability: Pharmacodynamic Methods
Data Collection III
The principles to begin the physical assessment include conducting a comprehensive or problem-related history in a quiet, well-lit room, emphasizing privacy and comfort for the patient.
Assessment of apical radial pulse
The A-R pulse assessment involves simultaneous evaluation of the apical and radial pulses. When the apical and radial pulse rates vary, this assessment helps identify a pulse deficit.
Pre-Procedural Preparation
Methods of Documentation VII: EMR