Influence of Beliefs about Medication Intake on Medication Adherence among Diabetic Patients in Huai Yot District, Trang Province

Abstract

Objective: To assess the levels of medication adherence and the influence of beliefs about medication on adherence among patients with diabetes mellitus in Huai Yot District, Trang Province. Methods: This study was cross-sectional analytical research. The subjects consisted of 320 diabetic patients diagnosed by physicians and registered in the healthcare system, receiving hypoglycemic medication, and residing in Huai Yot District, Trang Province. Medication adherence was assessed using the Medication Adherence Scale for Thais (MAST). Furthermore, beliefs about medication were evaluated based on the Horne, Weinman, and Hankins model, comprising four dimensions including perceived necessity of medications being taken, concerns about the medications being taken, overprescribing in general and medication-related harms in general. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires by patients prior to their physician visit at 22 sub-district health promoting hospitals. Results: The subjects had a mean medication adherence score of 34.47±5.29 (full score of 40). 218 participants (68.10%) demonstrated adequate levels of medication adherence. Perceived necessity of the prescribed medication being taken was associated with an increased likelihood of medication adherence (OR = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.27–2.76, P = 0.001). In contrast, concerns about  medication being taken were associated with a decreased likelihood of medication adherence (OR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.44–0.96, P = 0.033). Beliefs regarding medication overprescribing and general harm of medications from medications were not significantly associated with medication adherence (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Beliefs about medication, particularly perceived necessity and concerns regarding prescribed medicines, play a significant role in medication adherence among patients with diabetes. The findings of this study can be used to inform the design of patient care and counseling interventions aimed at effectively promoting medication adherence in primary care settings.