title: Improving drug concordance in patients with chronic conditions.
abstract: A significant proportion of patients with chronic illnesses fail to take their medication as prescribed (Barber et al, 2004). Failure to adhere to medication regimens is a widespread problem that has serious implications for patients and the health service. However, to improve concordance, health care professionals need to understand patients' reasons for not taking their medication as prescribed. While in many cases these reasons are relatively straightforward, others are complex and difficult to identify. In addition, the concept of informed choice means that, provided they have been given all the relevant information about the treatment options, patients have the right to refuse the treatment recommended to them.
authors.forename: Ann
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Shuttleworth
mesh_terms: D002755:Choice Behavior; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology; D003142:Communication; D006801:Humans; D007258:Informed Consent; D009042:Motivation; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000523:psychology*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic