Level of adherence among diabetics in the Bahamas admitted to the Princess Margaret Hospital

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To determine the level of adherence, using a validated tool, among diabetics at the Princess Margaret Hospital. DESIGN AND METHODS: A cross-sectional observational study design was used. There were 150 participants, who were admitted to the Princess Margaret Hospital, with diabetes mellitus from May to July 2014. Patients were of either gender, 18 years or older, taking at least one hypoglycaemic medication. Random sampling was used to endeavor that the sample represented the population. The identified patients gave informed consent and then were given self-administered questionnaires on knowledge, compliance and depression. They were assessed through Modified Morisky Scale, and Self -Care habits form. RESULTS: The mean total number of drugs taken daily was 4.77 (+ 2.7). The mean duration on current medications was 8.08(+ 8.12) years. The mean number of changes to medications was 0.87(+ 1.82). The mean number of days in a week participants spaced carbohydrates was 4.09 + 2.365 days. Participants did 30 minutes of physical activity at a mean of 2.21 + 2.6 days a week. The mean previous Morisky score was 1.80 (+ 1.35). The mean of current modified Morisky score was 1.88 (+ 1.32). The mean current motivation score was 1.44 (+ 1.05). The mean of current knowledge score was 2 (+0 .94). The mean score on the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ9) depression screening questionnaire was 3.91 (+ 4.21). CONCLUSIONS: The modified Morisky Score showed a medium level of adherence amongst diabetics in the Bahamas.