Patients who take prescribed medication incorrectly are suffering from poorer health, more frequent hospitalizations, and higher risk of death, says a new study. The Boston-based health policy group urges that this issue be brought up in the national healthcare reform debate.

Between one-third and one-half of patients in the United States are taking their prescriptions incorrectly, or not even taking them at all, says the study from New England Healthcare Institute. Some do not pick up or renew prescriptions, some do not take medication in the correct doses or at the right time, and of course some are not taking them at all.

Some reasons that have been given include the cost, unpleasant side effects, confusion about the regimen, forgetfulness, language barriers, and feeling too good to even need the medicine.

“Much of the discussion in health reform today is really about providing better outcomes for patients, and ultimately, better health and medication adherence is a fundamental missing link to better outcomes,’’ said Valerie Fleishman, the institute’s executive director.“We believe that it’s critical that adherence be woven into the fabric of the health reform debate.’’

People who have chronic illnesses such as diabetes or high blood pressure are less likely to take their medications as intended than people being treated for an urgent problem.

Not many studies have been conducted to help develop better methods for reminding patients to take medication correctly, but that is where Home Instead Senior Care can help.

Home Instead Senior Care hires only the most reliable and friendly CAREGivers for our clients, and part of that reliability involves medication reminders.  Although we are unable to legally administer medication, our CAREGivers are there to remind and observe that our clients take prescribed medications appropriately.

Home Instead Senior Care will provide outstanding CAREGivers to help your loved one with personal care, incidental travel,companionship, medication reminders, light housekeeping, and even meal preparation. To learn more, call 248-203-2273 or visit www.homeinstead.com.Home Instead Senior Care is the world’s trusted source of in-home non-medical personal care and companionship for seniors. Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

Source: http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/articles/2009/08/14/study_urges_action_to_get_patients_to_follow_prescriptions/