A study to evaluate compliance in patients of diabetes mellitus in a North-Indian tertiary care hospital

ABSTRACT

Background: The objective of the study was to determine level of adherence and recognize various causative factors which can affect the compliance in the diabetic patients.Methods: This was an observational study. The study was conducted by enrolling patients of the outpatient department of Medicine of Rajindra Hospital, Government Medical College, Patiala, Punjab. To assess adherence, a questionnaire was administered to the patients - Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS) -8 item questionnaire. The various factors affecting compliance was determined by a researcher made questionnaire.Results: Out of a total of 100 subjects, age range extended from 18 years to 80 years. The mean age was 57.52±12.33years. 51% of patients were females and 49% was males. Analysis of MMAS- 8 item scores of patients showed that 52% of patients had low adherence, 29% had medium while 19% had high adherence to the treatment. Only 30% patients were compliant i.e. with HbA1C value of 7 or less while 70% patients were non-compliant i.e. with HbA1C value of more than 7.Conclusions: Compliance to medical treatment is influenced by a myriad of factors. In order to promote compliance, it is necessary to increase awareness about the disease, possible complications and treatment guidelines among patients as well as their family members.