Following Dr.'s Recommendations vs. Non-Compliance

While following the doctor’s orders may seem like the obvious course of action after your doctor’s visit (Getting the most from doctor visits), in a recent poll only about half of all patients follow their doctor’s directions which includes medication prescriptions. The effects of this, also known as “non-compliance,” means that it may alter and prohibit a successful treatment, and in some cases can even prove to be deadly. Certain medications or treatments prescribed depend on strict directions and orders and if not followed may not be as effective. However, it is not just medications which patient’s may have difficulty following. Lifestyle modifications (Yoga Sexual Benefits For Your Life) and/or recommendations are also often overlooked by patients and can have equally as detrimental of an effect as not adhering to medication orders. Many surgical procedures (Procedures) have strict pre- as well as post-operative restrictions and orders which are necessary both for the safety of the patient as well as for achieving the best possible outcome. Such orders can anywhere from smoking cessation (which can compromise blood flow and healing), to activity restrictions like exercise limitations, or even certain food restrictions (Superfood Alternatives).

Non-compliance vs. Following Recommendations

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Following Dr.'s Recommendations Vs. Non-compliance Non-compliance refers to a patient that does not follow the doctor’s recommendations or orders. This may be due to misunderstanding the directions, forgetting to take the medications on time, or a patient that decides to alter the directions without the doctor’s approval. While the patient may view these issues as minor, it is estimated that every year, approximately 125,000 people die every year due to not taking their prescribed medications (Prescription Meds Wiki Page) or following the doctor’s orders.

Avoiding Non-compliance

When you sit with your doctor to discuss a treatment plan, be sure to ask about the prescribed medications and instructions. Make sure you know when and how often you are to take the medication, as well as when to stop. It is also important to mention that you should inform your doctor of any current medications you may be taking. This is to avoid possible interactions between prescribed medications and your current medications.Certain medications are affected by the type of food or liquid you take them with, the amount you take, the time of day you take them as well as their interaction with other medications. Some medications are instructed to be taken with an empty stomach. It is important to have an open and honest dialogue with your physician to understand the importance of following the instructions to achieve the safest and best treatment possible. If you have any questions, feel free to ask your doctor or local pharmacist.