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Factors Influencing Adherence to Refills and Medications in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Saudi Arabia: A
Jawad S Alnajjar1, Ali A Alwosaibei1, Maram A Alameen2
1College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Alahsa, Saudi Arabia.
Background:
Diabetes Mellitus is a growing public health concern in Saudi Arabia, with effective management relying on adherence to medications and lifestyle changes. However, non-adherence remains a significant challenge, particularly in regions with varying sociodemographic profiles.
Objective:
This study aimed to identify factors influencing adherence to medication and refills among patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in the Al-Ahsa region using the Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to July 2024 involving 732 T2DM patients attending governmental primary healthcare centers in Al-Ahsa. A stratified random sampling method was employed to select participants from various geographic strata. Data were collected via structured phone interviews using a validated questionnaire, and clinical data were extracted from medical records. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariable logistic regression were applied to assess factors associated with non-adherence.
Results:
The overall adherence rate was 52.5%. Significant sociodemographic factors (p < 0.05) associated with adherence included income, marital status, occupation, and area of residence. Clinical factors included age at diabetes onset, diabetic complications, HbA1c level, frequency of glucose monitoring, and comorbidities. Healthcare-related factors such as physician continuity, frequency of visits, and counseling were also significant. Multivariable logistic regression identified major predictors of non-adherence: living in the Southern region (OR = 6.59, p = 0.001), diabetic complications (OR = 1.44, p = 0.047), lack of physician counseling (OR = 2.15, p = 0.005), and poor access to healthcare (OR = 2.34, p = 0.003).
Conclusion:
Nearly half of T2DM patients in Al-Ahsa were non-adherent to medications and refills. Sociodemographic, clinical, and healthcare system factors significantly influenced adherence. Improving patient education, physician communication, and healthcare access may enhance adherence and outcomes.
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