The impact of medication synchronization programs on medication adherence: A meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Pharmacoeconomics and Health Outcomes Research
• Medication Adherence Studies
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Medication nonadherence incurs over $100 billion annually in preventable US healthcare costs.
• Medication synchronization (med sync) programs are emerging as a strategy to improve patient adherence.
• Addressing nonadherence is critical for reducing healthcare expenditures and enhancing patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a meta-analysis assessing the impact of med sync programs on medication adherence in adults with chronic conditions.
• To quantify the effect of med sync on adherence rates using the proportion of days covered (PDC) metric.
• To identify specific med sync program characteristics that influence adherence.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search identified relevant studies published up to May 2020.
• Included studies reported quantitative adherence data (PDC) and described their med sync program.
• Pooled odds ratios (ORs) and random-effects models were used for meta-analysis; risk of bias was assessed.
• Subgroup analyses examined the influence of med sync program type on adherence.

Main Results:

• Nine studies with 30 effect sizes were included, with fair methodological quality.
• Med sync was associated with significantly greater odds of medication adherence (pooled OR 2.29).
• Appointment-based med sync programs demonstrated the most substantial improvement in adherence (OR 3.14).

Conclusions:

• Medication synchronization is a proven strategy for improving medication adherence in adults.
• The findings support the implementation and reimbursement of med sync programs by policymakers and payers.
• Enhancing med sync programs can effectively combat medication nonadherence and improve overall health outcomes.