
Understanding Adherence in Asthma Biologics
Over the years, patients with asthma have gained access to advanced biologic therapies. However, a recent study highlighted a concerning trend: adherence to these treatments appears to be inconsistent among patients. Presented at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Annual Meeting 2025, the research showcased that adherence varies significantly depending on the specific biologic therapy being administered.
Justin Kwiatek, PharmD, a key figure in the study, noted that while clinical trials often report perfect adherence in controlled environments, the everyday reality for patients paints a different picture. It’s vital for healthcare practitioners to understand how development trajectories impact patient consistency. They're encouraged to look closely at their patients' actual care routines and obstacles to regular treatment adherence.
The Real-World Impact of Biologics
In the real world, challenges can compromise adherence to biologics like omalizumab, dupilumab, mepolizumab, and others. Factors such as costs, complex dosing schedules, and lack of immediate benefits can deter patients from following through with prescribed regimens. It begs the question: What can be done to improve adherence, especially in a concierge medical practice where patient-centric care is the cornerstone of the business?
Strategies to Enhance Patient Engagement
For concierge medical practice owners, implementing strategies focused on patient engagement is crucial. Here are some ideas to consider:
Education and Communication: Clear communication about the importance and benefits of biologics can help patients appreciate their treatment's value. Regular check-ins can affirm their need for consistency.
Personalized Care Plans: Tailoring treatment plans to fit individual lifestyles can make them easier to adhere to. This might involve adjusting dosing schedules to align with their daily routines.
Simplifying the Treatment Experience: Explore opportunities to streamline the treatment process. This could be through easier appointment scheduling or providing reminders for medication doses.
What Does This Mean for Patient Outcomes?
Failure to adhere to prescribed biologic therapies not only risks the patient's health but can also have broader implications for your practice. Low adherence can lead to increased healthcare costs, more frequent exacerbations, and overall dissatisfaction with care. By fostering a strong connection with your patients and navigating barriers to adherence, you can enhance their health outcomes while solidifying the trust essential for your concierge practice’s growth.
What Actions Can You Take?
As a practice owner, take note of these insights on patient adherence to asthma biologics. Actively working to encourage and support adherence can significantly impact your patients' health and your practice's reputation. By implementing empathetic, patient-focused strategies, you will not only enhance the effectiveness of treatment regimens but also strengthen patient relationships, crucial for sustaining and growing your practice.
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