Study on Incentives for Glaucoma Medication Adherence (SIGMA): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial to...

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Behavioral Economics
• Health Economics

Background:

• Glaucoma patients often struggle with medication adherence due to delayed health costs of non-adherence.
• Behavioral economic principles suggest near-term benefits can improve adherence rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of value pricing (VP) with adherence-contingent rebates versus usual care (UC) in enhancing glaucoma medication adherence.
• To determine if VP is a cost-effective strategy for chronic disease management.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, controlled trial (SIGMA) involving 100 non-adherent glaucoma patients.
• Patients were assigned to either the VP group (offering rebates) or UC group.
• Adherence was measured using a medication event monitoring system, with the primary outcome being the change in adherent days at 6 months.

Main Results:

• The study is designed to provide evidence on the impact of adherence-contingent rebates on medication adherence.
• Results will indicate if the VP approach is superior to usual care in improving adherence rates.

Conclusions:

• Adherence-contingent rebates may offer a promising strategy to improve medication adherence in glaucoma patients.
• This approach could be a valuable tool for cost-effective chronic disease management.