Adherence policy, education and practice - an international perspective

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Health Services Research
• Patient Adherence

Background:

• Medication nonadherence to chronic therapies presents a significant global healthcare burden.
• Community pharmacists are strategically positioned to improve medication adherence and promote quality use of medicines.
• A series of articles in Pharmacy Practice (2008-2010) explored community pharmacists' roles in medication adherence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize key findings from a series of articles on community pharmacists and medication adherence.
• To identify pertinent issues and literature gaps in this area.
• To advocate for global objectives to enhance pharmacist education, competencies, and research in medication adherence.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of peer-reviewed articles published in Pharmacy Practice between 2008 and 2010.
• Focus on community pharmacists' education, practice, research, and policies related to medication adherence.
• Synthesis of findings to identify key themes and areas for improvement.

Main Results:

• Community pharmacists' involvement in medication adherence is multifaceted, encompassing education, practice, and research.
• Existing literature highlights the need for improved pharmacist training and standardized adherence interventions.
• Policy and practice guidelines are essential for integrating adherence support into routine pharmacy care.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need for enhanced global and long-term objectives to improve community pharmacist education and competencies in medication adherence.
• Further research is required to develop and evaluate effective adherence-promoting services.
• Implementing guidelines and enhancing the uptake of adherence services in routine care are vital for reducing the burden of nonadherence.