Define “medication adherence.”

Medication adherence refers to how well a patient follows the prescribed medication regimen, which encompasses taking the right medications at the right doses and at the right times as directed by the healthcare provider. This concept encompasses not only the act of receiving and filling prescriptions but also the ongoing commitment of the patient to follow their treatment plan. It significantly influences health outcomes, as better adherence typically leads to improved control of medical conditions and reduced complications.

Filling prescriptions or the frequency of refilling does not fully capture the essence of adherence, as a patient may refill their medications but fail to take them as prescribed. The number of medications prescribed by a doctor relates more to polypharmacy and potential complexities in managing a patient's care rather than adherence itself. Lastly, switching medications often can indicate a trial to find the most effective therapy or address side effects but does not inherently relate to whether a patient is adhering to a regimen. Thus, the choice that focuses on the extent to which a patient follows their medication regimen accurately defines adherence.