HEALTH COMMUNICATION AND PATIENT ADHERENCE TO TREATMENT IN PUBLIC TERTIARY HOSPITALS IN NIGERIA

Cynthia Ifunaya Okorie

Abstract


Background: Effective health communication between healthcare providers and patients is widely recognized as a critical determinant of treatment adherence, particularly among patients managing chronic and acute health conditions. Despite this, gaps persist in the quality of provider-patient interactions, with potential consequences for patient outcomes. Aim: This study examined the quality of health communication and its relationship with treatment adherence among patients attending healthcare facilities. Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional design was employed among 180 respondents. Quantitative data were collected using structured questionnaires measuring health communication quality and treatment adherence on a four-point Likert scale. Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses were used to determine relationships and predictors. Qualitative data were gathered through open-ended responses exploring patients' experiences with provider communication. Findings: Health communication quality (M = 3.11) and treatment adherence (M = 3.09) were both rated high. A strong positive correlation existed between the two variables (r = .820, p < .01). Health communication quality was the strongest predictor of adherence (β = 0.58, p < .001), followed by education level and age. Lifestyle recommendation adherence was the weakest dimension. Qualitative themes revealed that clarity, empathy, and patient involvement enhanced adherence, while limited consultation time hindered it. Conclusion: Health communication quality significantly influences treatment adherence. Recommendations: Healthcare facilities should prioritize communication skills training, allocate adequate consultation time, and develop targeted interventions for lifestyle adherence improvement.


Keywords


health communication, patients, public tertiary hospitals, Nigeria

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References


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