Therapeutic adherence to insulin therapy in second level hospitals of the metropolitan health region

Abstract

Low adherence to insulin therapy is a public health problem because it entails both human and economic costs that negatively impact the health system, thus increasing morbidity and mortality in diabetics. The objective of the present investigation was to determine the therapeutic adherence to insulin therapy in patients who consult in second level hospitals of the Metropolitan Health Region. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, to which the "battle" test and the "Morisky-Green" test were incorporated to assess knowledge and adherence, respectively. Based on the results of this research, it was determined that therapeutic adherence to insulin is 45%, so there is low adherence compared to the adherence that exists in developed countries. In conclusion and based on the results of the study, the need to review and improve health education programs for diabetics was identified, in addition to making patients aware of their health condition and the importance of complying with their treatment.