My father was a very smart man and loved telling stories. One of his favorites was about a time when he was in the Army and went to a doctor for an infection on his foot. He described in detail the large pills the doctor prescribed and how much trouble he had swallowing them. After a couple weeks, he could not figure out why the pills were not working. At a follow up appointment, he learned that he was supposed to dissolve the large pills in water and soak his feet, and not swallow the pills! Fortunately, my dad was fine despite this misunderstanding, and we were able to enjoy a few laughs. Misunderstandings happen all of the time in life, and of course, healthcare is no different. Patient misunderstanding is only one of many reasons for patient non-adherence.
展开▼
