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Improving patient compliance--a multicentre evaluation of the 'DDS tile test'
S S Naik1, R R Vartak, E B Sequiera
1Acworth Leprosy Hospital Society for Research, Rehabilitation and Education in Leprosy, Wadala, Bombay.
Indian Journal of Leprosy
|October 1, 1994
Summary
The dapsone (DDS) tile test is feasible for field use in leprosy centers. Patient counseling based on test results significantly improved drug adherence in over 80% of cases.
Area of Science:
- Medical Microbiology
- Public Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Leprosy management requires consistent dapsone (DDS) therapy.
- Monitoring patient adherence to DDS medication is crucial for treatment success.
- Field-applicable diagnostic tools are needed to assess DDS compliance in remote settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and utility of the "DDS tile test" for monitoring dapsone (DDS) adherence in leprosy patients under real-world field conditions.
- To assess the impact of DDS tile test results and subsequent patient counseling on improving drug compliance.
Main Methods:
- The DDS tile test was implemented in 112 leprosy centers across Maharashtra.
- Urine samples from 2952 patients were tested for the presence of dapsone.
- Feedback from 54 centers was collected after one year to assess test performance and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- Approximately 10% of the tested urine samples were negative for dapsone, indicating non-adherence.
- The DDS tile test was found to be easily performable under field conditions.
- Patient counseling based on test results led to improved drug compliance in over 80% of cases.
Conclusions:
- The DDS tile test is a practical and valuable tool for assessing dapsone adherence in leprosy patients in field settings.
- Integrating this test with patient counseling can significantly enhance therapeutic compliance and potentially improve leprosy treatment outcomes.