How can I apply human behavior insights to enhance medication adherence among my patients?

To improve medication adherence by applying insights from human behavior, it is essential to adopt a patient-centred, tailored approach that addresses both intentional and unintentional non-adherence. Begin by engaging patients in open, non-judgemental conversations to assess their medication-taking behaviours and identify barriers, such as beliefs, concerns, or practical difficulties. This dialogue should clarify misconceptions about medications and ensure patients understand the benefits, risks, and correct usage of their treatment, using clear, individualised information and checking comprehension.

Encourage patients to take responsibility for their health by integrating medication into their daily routines and using behavioural strategies such as visual reminders (e.g., alarms, apps, pill dispensers) and written or pictorial instructions attached to medication packaging. For patients with cognitive or behavioural challenges, such as ADHD, additional support from carers or peer groups can enhance adherence. Tailor interventions to the specific needs identified, such as simplifying dosing regimens, using alternative packaging, or multi-compartment systems to reduce practical barriers.

Regularly review adherence and patients’ experiences with their medicines, revisiting their understanding and concerns over time, and adjust treatment plans collaboratively. Address side effects proactively by discussing management strategies or considering alternative medications. Also, consider socioeconomic factors like prescription costs that may impact adherence. Effective communication and coordination among healthcare professionals involved in the patient’s care are crucial to maintain consistent support and avoid fragmentation.

Recent literature on managing poor adherence in complex conditions like bipolar disorder supports these behavioural strategies, emphasising personalised interventions that consider patients’ motivations and cognitive factors, and the use of technology and behavioural cues to reinforce adherence. Together, these approaches leverage behavioural insights to create supportive environments that empower patients and reduce barriers to consistent medication use.

In summary, applying human behaviour insights involves:

• Individualised, clear communication and education about medicines.
• Non-judgemental assessment of adherence and barriers.
• Use of behavioural tools like reminders and routine integration.
• Support from carers and peer groups where appropriate.
• Tailored interventions addressing practical and intentional non-adherence.
• Regular review and adjustment of treatment and support.
• Coordination among healthcare professionals.

This integrated approach is supported by NICE guidelines on medicines adherence and ADHD management ¹,² and reinforced by recent evidence on behavioural strategies in psychiatric conditions (McVoy and Levin, 2023).