How to Improve Medication Adherence and 4 Common Challenges

Medication adherence is a crucial factor in maintaining optimal health and managing chronic conditions. It refers to the extent to which patients take their medications as prescribed by their healthcare providers. Poor medication adherence can lead to serious consequences, such as worsening symptoms, increased risk of complications, and higher healthcare costs.

Despite its importance, medication adherence is a major challenge in healthcare. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the average medication adherence rate is only 50% in developed countries. This means that up to half of patients with chronic illnesses are not taking their medications correctly.

There are various reasons for poor medication adherence. In this blog post, we will explore some common challenges and how integrating a modern medication adherence system can help healthcare facilities streamline processes and significantly improve medication adherence.

Challenge 1: Managing Large Patient Volumes

Hospitals often deal with a high volume of patients, each with individualized medication regimens that must be monitored and managed meticulously. Ensuring that every patient receives the correct medication at the right time can be an overwhelming task for healthcare staff, especially when resources are limited or during peak periods.

Errors in medication administration or missed doses can lead to negative health outcomes, increased hospital stays, and additional strain on healthcare systems. A comprehensive medication adherence system can alleviate this challenge by streamlining the medication distribution process, improving accuracy, and reducing the burden on medical personnel. These systems use barcode scanning and computerized alerts to ensure the right medication is dispensed at the right time.

Challenge 2: Complex Medication Regimens

Patients with chronic diseases often have complex medication regimens, which can be difficult for them to manage on their own. It can also be challenging for healthcare providers to keep track of multiple medications, dosages, and schedules for each patient.

Automated medicine dispensing machines can simplify this process by storing and dispensing pre-packaged medications tailored to each patient’s regimen. By reducing confusion and simplifying dosage schedules, these systems make it easier for patients to follow their prescriptions accurately and help improve medication adherence overall.

Challenge 3: Managing Controlled Substances 

Hospitals and healthcare facilities must adhere to strict regulations and protocols when it comes to managing controlled substances. These medications, such as opioids for pain management, require careful monitoring and documentation to prevent misuse or diversion.

Medication adherence system can help with this challenge by providing a secure storage solution for these medications. The machines can track the dispensing and administration of controlled substances, ensuring that they are only accessed by authorized personnel and reducing the risk of potential abuse.

Challenge 4: Inventory Management

Proper inventory management is crucial in healthcare settings. It makes sure that there are enough medications on hand to meet patient needs while also minimizing waste and expiration. Manual inventory management takes time and is prone to errors, leading to stockouts or overstocking.

Medication adherence systems can automate inventory tracking, helping facilities stay on top of stock levels and reorder when necessary. This ensures patients always have access to necessary treatments, further supporting efforts to improve medication adherence across the care continuum.

How Technology and Patient Support Further Improve Medication Adherence

In addition to addressing operational challenges, healthcare providers can adopt proactive practices that support patients directly. Educating patients about the purpose and benefits of their medications can empower them to follow treatment plans more consistently. Clear communication and personalized guidance help patients feel more confident in managing their therapies.

Tools like electronic reminders, mobile health platforms, and digital adherence tracking can also play an important role. These resources provide timely prompts and insights that encourage patients to stay on track with medication schedules, further contributing to efforts to improve medication adherence in both chronic and acute settings.

Improve Medical Adherence with Automated Medicine Dispensing Machines

Automated medicine dispensing machines offer numerous benefits for healthcare facilities, including increased efficiency, reduced errors, and improved medication adherence. adherent360 is the first comprehensive pharmacy automation platform designed to increase access to prescribed medication at the time of discharge.

With adherent360, patients can receive their prescribed medications directly from an automated dispensing machine, reducing wait times and ensuring they receive the correct dosage before leaving the facility. This approach eliminates the need for pharmacy staff to manually count and dispense, allowing clinicians and pharmacists to focus on patient care and support services. An integrated medication adherence system not only enhances operational performance but also strengthens patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Get in touch to learn how adherent360 can help your healthcare facility implement efficient dispensing workflows and improve medication adherence for your patient population.