JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

This paper reviews literature on medication adherence measures and expands upon Atreja, Bellam, and Levy's SIMPLE framework to close gaps in medication adherence [1]. The criteria for literary analysis is based on the application of support- and technology-based interventions. This extensive study pulled research from Google Scholar, PubMed, MedSpace, Sage, and Science Direct to update the SIMPLE framework and further outline opportunities and challenges in medication adherence.

Objective:

The application of support- and technology-based interventions are a necessary aspect of the SIMPLE framework. Support-based interventions focus on the relationship between providers and patients. Technology-based interventions discuss the adherence-improving opportunities available in health information technology and the Internet of Things.

Methods:

The mnemonic SIMPLE represents six guidelines that healthcare professionals may use to encourage patient compliance in pharmacotherapy: Simplify medication regimens, Impart knowledge, Modify patient beliefs, Patient communication, Leave the bias, and Evaluate adherence. This paper expands upon the SIMPLE guidelines and proposes challenges and opportunities that must be overcome when considering the interventions utilized in the framework.

Results:

Utilizing the SIMPLE framework in conjunction with support-based interventions and technology-based interventions will go far in improving medication adherence and, by extension, overall health outcomes. However, challenges such as patient health literacy and the costs of technological advancements must be overcome before adherence can be attained.

Conclusions:

The SIMPLE framework, along with the support- and technology-based interventions, will be incredibly helpful in encouraging patients to take their medications and adhere to their treatment plans as set by their physicians. However, it is also important to remember that there are still challenges to overcome, such as clinicians' and patients’ willingness (or lack thereof) to change or adapt to all that the enhanced SIMPLE framework has to offer. Clinical Trial: Not applicable.