The Impact of Comprehensive Medication Reviews on Medication Adherence and Health-Related Quality of Life: A Qualitative Study in KSA

Abstract

Comprehensive medication reviews (CMRs) are a patient-centered service provided by pharmacists to optimize medication use and improve health outcomes. This qualitative study explores the impact of CMRs on medication adherence and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among patients in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 patients who had received a CMR from a pharmacist in various healthcare settings. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to patients' experiences and perceptions of the impact of CMRs on their medication adherence and HRQoL. The findings revealed that CMRs contributed to improved medication understanding, increased motivation to adhere to treatment plans, and enhanced self-management skills. Patients also reported positive changes in their physical, emotional, and social well-being following the CMR, which they attributed to the personalized education and support provided by the pharmacist. However, some barriers to the effective implementation of CMRs were identified, including time constraints, limited access to pharmacists, and communication challenges. The study highlights the potential of CMRs to improve medication adherence and HRQoL among patients in KSA and underscores the need for further research and policy initiatives to optimize the delivery of this service in the healthcare system.