Knowledge, compliance, and satisfaction: an evaluation of the SIMPLE program.
OBJECTIVE
Evaluate the increase in medication use knowledge, participants' compliance, and satisfaction with the pharmacist through the SIMPLE program (Sepa [Know] Información correcta sobre [Correct information about] Medicinas [Medicines], Pregunte [Ask], Lea la etiqueta [Read the label], y Evite problemas [and Avoid problems]).


METHODS
Quasi-experimental type using a convenience sample.


METHODS
Community pharmacies in Puerto Rico.


METHODS
60 years of age or older in need of education for appropriate use of medications, using three or more medications for chronic diseases, were functional, and signed an informed consent and privacy agreement. A total of 316 elderly were enrolled. Complete documentation for the six encounters was obtained for 250 participants.


METHODS
The program was implemented through six encounters between pharmacists and participants in community pharmacies. Medication use knowledge and participants' compliance were measured by analyzing the baseline data and follow-up encounters. Participants' satisfaction with the pharmacist was evaluated using the Satisfaction With Pharmacist (SWiP) scale.


METHODS
Medication use knowledge, participant's compliance, and satisfaction with the pharmacist.


RESULTS
Compliance improved from 55.2% before the program to 90.0% after the program. Knowledge of medication use improved from 36.8% before the program to 94.4% after the program. There was an increase in the "very much" response for all items in the SWiP scale.


CONCLUSIONS
An increase in knowledge and compliance with medication therapy by the participants was observed after participation in the program. Participant-pharmacist relationship was reaffirmed and enhanced after participation in the program.
Rivera-Sárate
Sacha
S
School of Pharmacy, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan, Puerto Rico. sacha.rivera1@upr.edu
González-Cordero
Myriam L
ML
Gutiérrez-Collazo
Luz M
LM
Ríos-Motta
Ruth
R
D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003157:Community Pharmacy Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D055118:Medication Adherence; D008875:Middle Aged; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage; D010595:Pharmacists / Q000458:organization & administration*; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D011647:Puerto Rico
D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations