Asthma adherence management for the clinician.

Abstract

Nonadherence to asthma treatment has been related to increased hospital and emergency care, morbidity, and unnecessary costs. Improving patient adherence is a key component to achieving optimal outcomes. Review barriers, interventions, and communication skills shown to be effective in promoting asthma adherence. Asthma adherence literature was reviewed. Sequential management principles to achieve adherence include the following: (1) measuring adherence, (2) identifying barriers that result in nonadherence, (3) using specific strategies to overcome barriers; and (4) using communication skills to enhance the delivery of selected strategies. Careful attention to adherence management principles may increase adherence, enhance outcomes, and reduce unnecessary morbidity and cost. The case described applies these principles and gives the reader a framework to review.