Adherence of chronic dermatology patients to prescriptions and non-medicinal instructions

Objectives: To determine frequency of adherence of dermatology patients having chronic diseases to prescriptions and non-medicinal instructions. Patients and methods: The study was conducted at dermatology out-patient department of PAF Hospital Faisal, Karachi from July 2009 to September 2009. Patients included those having skin disease of over 6 months duration and visiting hospital repeatedly. A specially designed pro forma was filled for each patient. It included demographic profile and questions regarding written prescription, non-medicinal instructions and follow up dates by the dermatologist and whether patients understood and followed the prescription and non-medicinal instructions and having regular follow ups. Computer program SPSS-15 was used to manage and analyze the data. Results: Of 160 patients, 91 (56.9%) were males and 69 (43.1%) females. Patients’ age was 1-90 years (mean 33.08+18.72 years). Prescription was clearly written for 94 (58.8%) and 84 (52.5%) understood the prescription. Ninety five (59.4%) patients took medicines regularly and in correct dosages and 43 (26.9%) observed non-medicinal instructions. Forty (25.0%) patients were given follow up date in writing and 71 (44.37%) were re-visiting clinic regularly. Conclusion: A considerable number of patients having chronic dermatological diseases are not adhering to the prescriptions and non-medicinal instructions.