SAAME study: Scottish adherence to antihypertensives medication in the elderly

Method

Pre-registration pharmacy trainees (pre-regs) undertaking postgraduate placement-in-practice based in community pharmacies across Scotland were invited to take part. Each pre-reg invited and consented up to 15 patients (aged 65 plus; at least one prescribed medication) presenting with a prescription which indicated treatment for hypertension, to take part in a telephone interview. The structured interview focused on patient’s beliefs about medicines and medication adherence.

Results

Of the 130 pre-regs working in community pharmacy in Scotland 92% (n=119) took part with a patient-participant response rate of 75% (n=1332). 94% of respondents always-or-often strive to follow doctor’s instructions and have a strict routine for use of their regular medicines. 87% rarely-or-never get confused about their medicines. 78% of respondents believed their medication prevented them becoming ill; unpleasant side effects were reported by 8%. 93% said taking medication did not disrupt their life. Respondents had visited a medical practice twice in previous six months. 69% reported normal blood pressure.  49% of respondents had previously smoked daily; 13% currently smoke.

Conclusion

The SAAME study provides strong evidence of patients adhering to antihypertensive medication, also a model for promoting evidenced-based community pharmacy services: public health data year-on-year; raise the profile of clinical research in community pharmacy services. Feedback suggests pharmacies have concerns about telephone interviews preventing calls coming in so would prefer the option of face-to-face interviews; also direct online entry of data, and; online consent forms for the pre-regs. Future research is planned around evaluating pre-reg engagement, training needs, impact on community pharmacy based tutors and staff.