The Building Blocks To Improving Patient Adherence In Dermatological Practice: Accountability, Practicality, And A Little "Nudge"

By Steven R. Feldman, MD, PhD, is a Professor of Dermatology, Pathology, and Social Sciences and Health Policy at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, NC.

Patient adherence to topical dermatological treatments remains alarmingly poor, often leading to suboptimal health outcomes. Dr. Steven R. Feldman, a renowned dermatologist, underscores this critical issue, attributing it to the complexity of treatment regimens, side effects, and inadequate patient education. In his insightful work, Dr. Feldman likens the challenge to a "three-legged stool," where physicians are trained to diagnose and prescribe but not to motivate patients—a gap he argues needs to be urgently addressed.

Dr. Feldman advocates for building trust and accountability, simplifying treatment protocols, and employing behavioral "nudges" to improve adherence. Drawing parallels to effective practices in other fields, he emphasizes the importance of regular follow-up, clear communication, and practical solutions like reminder systems and engaging packaging to support patient compliance.

The call to action is clear: healthcare providers must go beyond mere diagnosis and prescription. By fostering strong patient relationships and employing innovative strategies, they can significantly enhance treatment adherence, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and a more effective healthcare system. This approach is a win-win for all stakeholders involved, from patients to healthcare professionals and insurers.