title: Solving the Problem of Nonadherence to Immunotherapy.
abstract: Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) can improve allergic response by modifying the underlying disease. Many patients are nonadherent, and do not achieve full benefit. Numerous studies reveal that fewer than 10% of patients complete a full course and that most abandon treatment in the first year. The development and testing of interventions to improve AIT are emerging. Data from adherence interventions in other chronic conditions provide guidance to allergists/immunologists. Evidence-based communication strategies-patient-centered care, motivational interviewing, and shared-decision making-underscore the importance of taking time to establish trust, understand patient concerns and priorities, and involve the patient in decisions regarding AIT.
authors.affiliation: Center for Health Promotion, National Jewish Health, 1400 Jackson Street, Denver, CO 80206, USA. Electronic address: bender@njhealth.org.
authors.forename: Bruce G
authors.initials: BG
authors.lastname: Bender
authors.affiliation: Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, 12901 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
authors.forename: Richard F
authors.initials: RF
authors.lastname: Lockey
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003142:Communication; D003888:Desensitization, Immunologic; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D010349:Patient Compliance; D018802:Patient-Centered Care; D058996:Quality Improvement
keywords: Adherence; Allergen immunotherapy; Motivational interviewing; Patient-centered care; Shared decision making