Side Effects Take Center Stage: Uncovering Medication Adherence Issues With Behavioral Science

Medication adherence is crucial for improving and maintaining our health, but fear of side effects might cause members to hesitate to continue taking medications that cause these issues. The American Medical Association lists fear of potential side effects as one of the top reasons members avoid taking their medications.

To encourage adherence despite these hurdles, it’s essential to find the root causes of these behaviors and offer practical solutions. Thankfully, behavioral science technology allows us to dig deeper into why members avoid renewing prescriptions and offer targeted thoughtful support.

The following paragraphs explain some of the building blocks forming MedOrion’s behavioral science-based platform. Here’s how we identify side effects-related considerations and address them. 

Gathering Clues: Member’s Background Plays a Role

• Fear of side effects: Some medications, like statins and antihypertensives, are notorious for side effects. Even if a member hasn’t experienced these issues firsthand, they may have heard enough to feel uneasy about starting the treatment. Research shows that a person’s confidence in managing side effects can determine whether they stick with the medication. 

• Polypharmacy and age: While some medications do not always cause side effects, a high dosage or the combination of multiple medications might lead to this unfortunate result. Older adults, in particular, may require higher doses that result in more significant side effects. When someone’s body is already weaker, this can lead to a vicious cycle of discomfort that discourages them from continuing the medication.

• Support system shortfalls: Social support plays a vital role in helping members manage side effects. Research shows a correlation between members’ Social Capital Index scores and medication adherence. People who lack family or friends to turn to for empathy or practical help are more likely to give up on their treatment altogether.

Behavior Patterns Speak Louder Than Words

After we’ve examined which medications are prescribed and what we know about a member’s background, it’s time to study their behavior. For example, if the data shows that a member started taking medication and stopped shortly after—particularly when the medication is linked with common side effects—this behavior is very telling. 

Offering Tailored Solutions That Fit Members’ Needs

Side effects are an undeniable fact, but we can address misconceptions about side effects. Once we’ve identified the potential barriers, the next step is to offer members tailored solutions. When crafting the content, we put ourselves in the specific member’s shoes and address their expectations and fears. 

It’s important to refrain from addressing the specific medications they’re taking and instead include multiple medications as examples or discuss side effects from a broader perspective. 

• Focusing on value and risk: Helping members keep in mind the long-term benefits of their medication, despite side effects, can empower them to stay the course. We can also explain the risk involved in non-adherence compared to the manageable risks of side effects. A powerful, personalized message that highlights the importance of managing their condition can provide the encouragement they need.

• Provider input: In some cases, alternative medications or therapies may offer similar benefits without the same side effects. We can suggest discussing options with their healthcare provider to explore these possibilities. Another option would be to discuss helpful lifestyle choices, such as nutritional changes, exercising, preferred medication-taking times, etc. 

• Finding strength in the community: Sometimes, all a person struggling with medical challenges needs is someone who understands them. One of the most impactful tools we can offer members is a sense of community. Community centers, specifically for people with similar conditions, create a safe space to share experiences and find practical tips for managing side effects. 

However, some online communities may steer members the wrong way and promote views that go against medical advice. A round-up of leading communities for various conditions will protect members’ privacy while offering solid advice. 

• Encouraging dialogue with providers: Sometimes, members hesitate to share how they’re feeling with their medical providers. Perhaps they do not trust their provider enough to share private details or assume this information is unimportant. By encouraging an open dialogue, we can help them communicate their struggles and work with their provider to find solutions that work for them.

Behavioral science is a powerful tool that helps us identify when side effects are causing members to avoid renewing prescriptions and doing what’s best for their health.
At MedOrion, our goal is to harness this advanced technology to provide personalized, actionable engagement that empowers members to continue their treatment with confidence.