ISSN : 2663-2187

Medication Adherence Challenges in Visually Impaired Patients: Insights and Solutions from the National Capital Region of India

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Dheeraj Kumar Sharma, Vijay Bhalla
» doi: 10.48047/AFJBS.6.15.2024.332-345

Abstract

A major challenge in medication use for visually impaired (VI) individuals is the similarity in the texture and shape of medicine containers and packaging. The absence of distinct tactile features can result in confusion, thereby elevating the risk of medication errors, such as administering the wrong drug or incorrect dosages. Data from Delhi NCR may serve as a foundation for enhancing pharmaceutical services for this patient group and propose innovative solutions to overlooked issue. A cross-sectional study, using an interviewer administered questionnaire on 313 VI adults was carried out in Delhi NCR. Among 313 participants, 96% faced challenges with identification of medicines. 91% faced challenges with dose recognition and measurement. 79% required assistance of person with normal vision for ensuring expiry date. Majority of participants wanted to get medication information in an audio format (83%), braille labelling on medicines (100%). The concept of incorporating audio QR codes on prescriptions and medication packaging was favored by 69.97% of the participants. Self-adopted coping strategies were inadequate to overcome these and may cause serious health outcomes. Emerging technologies can be implied to improve medication adherence in VI patients.

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