Polly Buchanan
Scottish Dermatology Nursing Society
UK
Title: Strategies to improve adherence: A bio-psycho-social approach
Biography
Biography: Polly Buchanan
Abstract
Poor adherence is a long standing problem in clinical dermatology. Poor adherence to clinical management programmes with dermatology topical treatments can have important quality, health and resource implications. This presentation will explore the issues surrounding poor adherence to topical treatments. The implications for management are discussed as are the strategies available in supporting patients (and their carers) utilising a bio-psycho-social approach. Key barriers to good adherence are identified, with communication and patient (mis)understanding being arguably the two most significant factors influencing concordance. Five dimensions of adherence are outlined to include disease, patient, treatment, socio-economic and health care system factors. Strategies for improving adherence using assessment tools and a stepped approach within the consultation process are presented as the way forward in improving adherence, patient experiences and helath care professional satisfaction