Improved patient compliance through use of a daily drug reminder chart

The results of this study indicate that pharmacist use of a daily drug reminder chart significantly improves medication compliance in a group of geriatric hypertensive patients attending the pharmacy of a community health care clinic. Hulka mentions that good communication of instructions and information from physician to patient is associated with low levels of all types of drug errors, which promotes better compliance. However, the pharmacist may be a viable alternative to assume this responsibility due to frequent contact and close supervision of the patient's use of chronic medication. To the extent that many low rates of compliance result from misunderstanding and forgetfulness, specific intervention techniques to supplement personal communication and attention may have value. This study has shown that better drug compliance results when verbal instructions are reinforced with a daily drug reminder chart. It further suggests that implementation of this use in conjunction with patient follow-up might best be delegated to the pharmacist, who already assumes the major responsibility for preparing and delivering a supply of medication to the patient.