IMPACT OF PHARMACIST INTERVENTION IN ENHANCING MEDICATION ADHERENCE AMONG HEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive condition associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality, often leading to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), cardiovascular events, and a reduced quality of life. Effective medication adherence is critical for preventing adverse outcomes and improving long-term survival. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of a pharmacist-led patient education program in improving medication adherence and enhancing medication knowledge in hemodialysis patients. Secondary objectives included examining the relationship between adherence and demographic factors. Methods: A prospective interventional study was conducted on 109 hemodialysis patients. Medication adherence was assessed using the General Medication Adherence Scale (GMAS), and patient medication knowledge was evaluated through the Patient Medication Knowledge Assessment (PMKA). Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the significance of changes in adherence and knowledge. Results: Among the 109 participants, the pharmacist-led intervention resulted in a highly significant improvement in medication adherence, as measured by GMAS (p < 0.001). Patient knowledge, assessed through PMKA, also showed a statistically significant increase (p < 0.001). However, no significant correlation was found between occupational status and adherence (p = 0.326). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that a pharmacist-led patient education program significantly improves medication adherence and knowledge among hemodialysis patients. The findings suggest that integrating pharmacists into the multidisciplinary care team for CKD patients can optimize medication management and improve long-term health outcomes.