The use of group programs to improve medication compliance in patients with chronic diseases

Non-compliance with medication is one of the major factors in the failure of therapeutic programs for patients having a chronic disease. The good results of a controlled study on the evolution of schizophrenic patients, who participated in a medication group program aimed at diminishing affective components of negative attitudes towards neuroleptics, are discussed. The building up of specific questionnaires could help in understanding the nature of the prejudices towards the use of medication in patients with chronic diseases. The organization of group programs could diminish patients' prejudices, thus improving compliance.