We Built It, But They Are Not Coming: Exploring Deterrents to Consumer Medication Information Use

Given the prevalence of prescription medication use, it is important that consumers are aware of the benefits and risks of taking their prescribed medications. One approach to informing consumers in North America is to provide them with Consumer Medication Information (CMI), the paper leaflets given to consumers when they fill a prescription for the first time. Unfortunately, reported use rates of written medication information are quite low. As part of a broader study investigating memory, perceptions, preferences and information needs around CMI, this study specifically examined reported deterrents to CMI use. Findings from this study revealed three areas that appear to influence CMI use: 1) Documentation, how CMI is designed and what it contains; 2) Provision, how and when CMI is given to consumers; and 3) Context, what the individual's characteristics and experiences are. These three factors warrant further investigation to reveal more of their unique facets and their relative influences on CMI use. That is, some aspects may be more influential than others.