Consecuencias de la inadecuada adherencia terapéutica en diabetes mellitus y propuestas de mejora

Abstract

Introduction

The adherence of patients with diabetes mellitus is far from optimal. There are no studies addressing this topic globally.

Aim

To provide updated information regarding the extent at which poor adherence influences diabetes mellitus patients' evolution and increases expenditure; to identify causes and propose actions.

Methods

Primary care and hospital specialists joined to reach consensus regarding cause identification and specific recommendations.

Results and discussion

Poor adherence unacceptably increases morbimortality and expenditure. Causes involve administrations, healthcare providers (HCPs), and patients. Realistic actions are proposed: therapeutic education for patient empowerment; continuous training of HCPs; setting up channels to facilitate fluent communication HCP-patient; improved coordination among care levels; commitment of administrations.

Conclusions

Poor therapeutic adherence continues to be a matter of concern. Realistic recommendations are proposed to overcome the problem.