Pharmacist-Led Interventions in Medication Adherence among Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

Abstract

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses a significant global health challenge, affecting an estimated 10–14% of the population and leading to substantial economic burdens on healthcare systems. Despite advancements in treatment, the mortality rate for CKD remains unchanged, highlighting the necessity for effective management strategies. This study explores the critical role of pharmacist-led interventions in enhancing medication adherence among CKD patients, who often face complex pharmacotherapy regimens. The multifaceted nature of CKD treatment, which frequently results in polypharmacy, complicates adherence due to factors such as health literacy and access to medications. The research identifies key barriers to adherence, including regimen complexity and financial constraints, and emphasizes the importance of tailored pharmacist interventions. Through comprehensive medication management, pharmacists can conduct thorough medication reviews, educate patients about their treatment, and implement adherence-enhancing tools such as reminder systems and counseling sessions. Evidence indicates that multimodal educational strategies, including the use of smartphone-activated QR codes linking to instructional videos, significantly improve adherence rates, particularly among patients with low health literacy. Furthermore, the study highlights pharmacist perceptions of their role, revealing a consensus on their potential effectiveness in improving adherence, albeit hindered by time constraints and underutilization in practice. The findings underscore the necessity for healthcare systems to integrate pharmacist-led initiatives more comprehensively, as patient feedback indicates high satisfaction and perceived efficacy of these interventions. By fostering a collaborative environment where pharmacists actively engage with patients, the potential for improved health outcomes in CKD management is substantial, ultimately contributing to better quality of life and reduced healthcare costs. This study advocates for enhanced recognition and incorporation of pharmacists in CKD care teams to address adherence challenges effectively.