Volume :

2

Issue :

2

Abstract :

Background The objective of this study was to investigate the degree of compliance among cardiac patients who attend the health facilities in Kuala Lumpur and Perak, Malaysia. The reasons for non-compliance and recommendations from healthcare professionals were also evaluated. Method A cross-sectional study of 400 patients and 100 healthcare professionals was carried out. This study utilizes variables on external factors and internal factors as the measurement tools. The questionnaire which consists of Morisky self-reported medication adherence questions was administered to patients and causes for non-compliance sought. Questionnaire for healthcare professionals was used to determine strategies that can improve compliance rate. Results The study revealed a 15.8% of high adherence rate, 54.3% of moderate adherence rate and 30% of poor adherence to cardiovascular disease medications. The chi-square tests showed the strong association between dependent and independent variables. The model chosen for testing the patient compliance through external and internal factors gives an R2 value of 85.0% with an adjusted R2 of 84.7%. The F value (317.187) was also significant (p=0.000) which means that the variables have better fit in the multivariate model. The major reasons determined for non-adherence were attitudes and beliefs, lifestyle, side effects and cost of medications. The study recommends that pharmacists and dispensing technicians should be adequately qualified to provide proper counselling to cardiac patients on their medicines and disease conditions. Conclusion The result of this study is of value to health care providers. Compliance to cardiovascular medications will avoid treatment failures encountered in therapy.