What defines primary non-adherence (PNA)?

Primary non-adherence (PNA) refers to the scenario where a patient does not fill a prescription after it has been issued by a healthcare provider. This concept is crucial in understanding medication adherence because it highlights the first step in the medication process: the transition from prescription to actual medication use. When patients leave a healthcare appointment with a prescription but do not go on to fill it at a pharmacy, this indicates a disconnect that can significantly affect treatment outcomes.

This phenomenon can happen for various reasons, including lack of resources, misunderstanding the importance of the medication, or barriers to accessing a pharmacy. By identifying primary non-adherence, healthcare providers can intervene early, provide additional education, or address potential obstacles to ensure that patients are more likely to follow through with their prescribed treatment plans. Recognizing the distinction of PNA is essential for improving medication adherence strategies and ultimately enhancing patient care.