Medication adherence and associated factors among chronic heart failure patients on follow-up in north Shewa public hospitals, Oromia region, Ethiopia.

Background: Chronic heart failure affects approximately 26 million people globally. World Health Organization data show that only approximately half of chronically ill patients in developed countries adhere to recommended medication, with even lower rates in developing countries. Medication adherence is critical for managing chronic heart failure symptoms, delaying disease progression, and preventing hospitalizations. However, poor adherence increases rehospitalization, morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs.

Objective: To assess medication adherence and associated factors among chronic heart failure patients on follow-up at North Shewa Public Hospitals, Oromia Region, Ethiopia, in 2023.

Methods: This institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 1 to April 30, 2023, G.C. A total of 603 individuals were selected consecutively among those who underwent chronic OPD after being proportionally allocated to five hospitals in the zone. The data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and a medical chart review. The data were entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and then exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. The multivariable logistic regression model included variables with a P value < 0.25 in the bivariate analysis. The degree of association was expressed using an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) at a P value < 0.05.

Results: Among the 603 patients, 56% had optimal medication adherence, with a 95% CI of 52.1 to 60. Being able to read and write (AOR: 2.20; 95% CI: 1.34, 3.61), having a secondary education (AOR: 1.97; 95% CI: 1.06, 3.67), having community-based health insurance (AOR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.22, 2.71), not having comorbidities (AOR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.18, 2.52), taking several drugs < 2 (AOR: 2.11; 95% CI: 1.20, 2.45), not adding salt when cooking (AOR: 1.72; 95% CI: 1.20, 2.45), and asking a doctor or nurse without fear (AOR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.03, 3.40) were factors associated with medication adherence among CHF patients.

Conclusion: This study revealed that 56% of chronic heart failure patients had optimal medication adherence. Factors associated with higher adherence included higher education, community health insurance, lack of comorbidities, fewer medications, avoiding added salt, and comfortable communication with providers. Health professionals should provide education to strengthen medication adherence.