Patient and Provider’s Experience and Perspective in Addressing Barriers to Medication Adherence Among Noncommunicable Disease Patients in Rural Puducherry, South India—A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Trend in morbidity and mortality due to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) is rising because of poor control status. Medication nonadherence is one of the most common and modifiable causes of inadequate control status. Objectives: To examine the barriers in drug adherence among NCD patients in rural Puducherry. Methods: This qualitative study includes in-depth and key informant interview conducted among 6 NCD patients and 4 health-care providers. Interviews were audio-recorded, and transcript was prepared in verbatim format. Thematic content analysis was done to derive the categories and themes. Results: Major barriers for nonadherence to medications found were stress, substance abuse, forgetfulness, lack of family support, and high case load of health facilities. Corrective measures suggested to address the barriers were to provide health education to patients and family members, awareness campaigns in community, and health education sessions at the clinic. Conclusion: Psychological factors such as stress, social isolation, and negligence are major barriers for drug adherence. Health education session at community and health system is needed to improve the adherence.