What can inadequate medication adherence lead to?

Inadequate medication adherence can significantly increase the risk of hospital readmission for several reasons. When patients do not take their medications as prescribed, it can lead to worsening of their underlying health conditions, which may necessitate readmission to the hospital for further treatment. This is particularly evident in chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart failure, where consistent medication use is critical in managing the illness and preventing complications.

Additionally, when patients fail to adhere to their medication regimen, it can result in more acute episodes that require urgent medical care or hospitalization. This ultimately places a burden on the healthcare system and can lead to increased healthcare costs and poorer long-term health outcomes for the patient. Addressing medication adherence through strategies such as counseling, simplified drug regimens, or medication management programs can help reduce the risk of hospital readmissions and improve overall patient health.