Medication adherence: a review among diabetic patients in Outpatient Department of Hospital Sultan Ismail, Johor Bahru (HSIJB)

As the prevalence of adult diabetic patients in Malaysia is increasing, we need to know the level of adherence among these diabetic patients on their antidiabetic medications and treatment. After the information was gathered and analysed, we were able to know the pattern of medication adherence and thus comparing the result with patients’ demographic background. This review aimed to identify the pattern of medication adherence among adult diabetic patients in outpatient department of Hospital Sultan Ismail (HSI), Johor Bahru. A series of questionnaires which have been adapted from previous studies was used as a survey form to assess patients’ adherence level, i.e. modified Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, (MMAS). While a retrospective review of patients medical record was conducted to obtain patients’ demographic data and other related clinical data. A total of 50 patients were obtained after a thorough selection; mean age was 53.08 years, 56% were male and generally the subjects were well-adhered to their medications with MMAS mean score of 7.3. From the data that have been collected, it is proven that age level, education level, complexity of drug regime, severity of illness and adherence aid tools usage significantly affect adherence level among the subjects. Meanwhile, gender and race were found to not affecting level of adherence at a greater extent. At the end of the research, the expected output from the research can be used as a guide to improve medication adherence practice in the hospital. Upon completion of the study, the study finding would allow the healthcare professionals involved to make better strategic approach to enhance medication adherence among different patients’ demographic data and background.