Families and medication use and adherence among Latinos with schizophrenia.
BACKGROUND
Medication nonadherence among Latinos with schizophrenia represents a significant treatment obstacle. Although some studies have examined patient and family perceptions of adherence, few have examined these perceptions together. However, such knowledge can provide a deeper understanding of how family processes may contribute to or impede adherence among underserved groups such as Latinos.


OBJECTIVE
This study explored perceptions of medication and adherence among Latinos with schizophrenia and key family members.


METHODS
Purposive sampling was used to collect data from 34 participants: 14 patients with schizophrenia receiving community-based mental health services in an urban public setting and 20 key family members. Informed by grounded theory, semistructured interviews were analyzed by bilingual-bicultural team members.


RESULTS
Salient themes emerged indicating facilitators of and obstacles to medication use. Specifically, challenges centered on medication side effects, autonomy and choice, and illness insight, whereas facilitators focused on family support and holistic views of treatment and empowerment.


CONCLUSIONS
Because the majority of Spanish-speaking Latinos with schizophrenia live with family, it is important to examine family factors that may influence medication use. Findings suggest that patient and family perceptions of medication should be examined as part of the treatment process, particularly regarding issues of autonomy and choice.
a School of Social Work, University of Southern California , Los Angeles , CA , USA.
Mercedes
M
Hernandez
a School of Social Work, University of Southern California , Los Angeles , CA , USA.
Concepción
C
Barrio
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006630:Hispanic or Latino / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D055118:Medication Adherence; D008875:Middle Aged; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000188:drug therapy*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D012944:Social Support
Hispanic; Serious mental illness; autonomy and choice; community mental health; treatment adherence
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