Patient adherence to prescribed pharmacological treatment at a specialized pediatric institute Adherencia al tratamiento farmacológico recetado en pacientes de un instituto especializado pediátrico

Abstract

Adherence to pharmacological treatment is crucial to controlling chronic diseases, preventing complications, and promoting healthy development in childhood, thus ensuring long-term improvement of health and well-being. We aimed to analyze factors related to adherence to prescribed pharmacological treatment for pediatric patients in the outpatient clinic of a pediatric care institute. An observational and cross-sectional study was conducted involving 385 parents or guardians of minors surveyed using a 13-question questionnaire and the Morisky-Green-Levine test. Adherence to pharmacological treatment varied among pediatric patients. Adherence was 14.4 % among parents with secondary education, 18.4 % in homemakers, and 14.1 % in those with incomes below minimum wage. Although 78.4 % of respondents reported no adverse reactions, only 17.2 % showed treatment adherence. Adherence also varied by gender and age, with 16.4 % in women, 19.1 % in the 36-45 age group, 12.8 % in cohabitants, and 17.8 % in family households. These findings highlight the need for interventions to improve adherence in pediatric patients. This study identifies significant concerns regarding low adherence to treatment, particularly among parents or guardians of minors with a high school education, individuals who are homemakers, and those responsible for treatments lasting more than 15 days. Female caregivers aged 26 to 45, particularly those living in cohabiting households, exhibited low adherence to medication administration. Interventions, such as medication education programs, mobile device reminders, and emotional support, are recommended to enhance adherence.