Providers can improve medication adherence by texting patients refill reminders. More specifically, pharmacies can play a proactive role in supporting medication management and promoting better health outcomes.
The impact of medication adherence
Research on medication adherence shows that “The treatment of chronic illnesses commonly includes the long-term use of pharmacotherapy. Although these medications are effective in combating disease, their full benefits are often not realized because approximately 50% of patients do not take their medications as prescribed.”
U.S. Pharmacist states that “adherence rates of 80% or more are needed for optimal therapeutic efficacy.”
Moreover, medication nonadherence has severe repercussions contributing to “up to 50% of treatment failures, around 125,000 deaths, and up to 25% of hospitalizations each year in the United States.” This shows that medication adherence needs to be addressed to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare burdens.
Challenges in medication adherence
The previous study showed that “adherence rates can go down as time passes after the initial prescription is written, or as barriers emerge or multiply.” Evidently, there is a need for sustained support and intervention strategies. Additionally, barriers, like financial constraints and psychological factors, can further impact medication adherence.
While traditional communication methods like phone calls and paper-based notifications acknowledge these barriers, they often fall short of addressing them promptly, while preserving patient privacy.
Using HIPAA compliant text message reminders
Unlike phone calls, which may be missed or overlooked, text messages are often read promptly. Pharmacies can use HIPAA compliant text messaging for real-time communication with patients while adhering to regulatory standards for safeguarding protected health information (PHI). Pharmacies can also use a platform like Paubox to send automated reminders for prescription refills or daily doses.
A meta-analysis on medication adherence in chronic disease showed that “text messaging approximately doubles the odds of medication adherence. This increase translates into adherence rates improving from 50% to 67.8%...”
So, integrating HIPAA compliant texts could improve medication adherence through timely reminders and providing convenient and accessible communication for patients.
Feasibility
The feasibility of text reminders to improve medication adherence has been substantiated by another study, indicating that reminders were "associated with improved medication adherence, perceived quality of life, and self-efficacy."
Furthermore, the cost-effectiveness and ease of implementation of text messaging interventions make them particularly attractive options for healthcare organizations seeking to improve medication adherence.
Enhancing the patient experience
HIPAA compliant text messaging platforms can be integrated with pharmacy management systems, allowing for seamless coordination of care. Pharmacies can send personalized messages based on each patient's medication regimen, for a more tailored approach to medication management. Patients can easily reply to messages with questions or concerns and pharmacists can provide timely assistance.
For example, pharmacies can send tailored text reminders to patients with hypertension. If a patient is unsure of their dosage or needs advice, pharmacists can reply to these messages with tailored advice, dosage clarifications, or additional support, ensuring patients receive the necessary guidance to optimize their treatment.
This could help the patient adhere to their regimen, leading to better blood pressure control and reduced risk of complications. Ultimately, promoting their medication adherence, which could improve health outcomes.
FAQs
What are the potential outcomes of improved medication adherence through HIPAA compliant text messaging?
Improved adherence can lead to better health outcomes, reduced risk of complications, and enhanced quality of life for patients managing chronic conditions.
How can pharmacies ensure patients receive accurate information through HIPAA compliant text messaging?
Pharmacies should verify and update patient information regularly and provide clear instructions, avoiding complex medical jargon, to ensure accuracy and understanding.
How can pharmacies ensure patient privacy while using text messaging?
Pharmacies must use HIPAA compliant text messaging platforms with encryption and authentication protocols to safeguard protected health information (PHI).
Go deeper: FAQs: Protected health information (PHI)
