Text reminders boost heart failure patients’ medication adherence by 19%
A recent study at Magnolia Regional Health Center in Mississippi has shown that simple text message reminders can improve medication adherence among heart failure patients. The trial found that those who engaged with the messages were 19% more likely to fill their prescriptions on time. This small change also led to fewer hospital readmissions within 30 days of discharge.
Heart failure affects one in four people at some point in their lives. Many struggle to take their medication as prescribed, with adherence rates often below 50%. Poor adherence worsens health outcomes and adds over $500 billion in avoidable healthcare costs each year.
The study tested automated SMS reminders sent to patients after hospital discharge. Each message included the prescriber’s details and a link to view prescriptions, educational materials, and financial support options. Over 92% of participants clicked to check their medication information at least once, and fewer than 8% opted out of the texts. Patients who interacted with the messages showed better results. They had a 19% higher chance of filling their prescriptions compared to those who ignored the reminders. For those with a recent hospital stay, engagement increased the likelihood of filling prescriptions by 52%. Additionally, these patients saw a 6% drop in the odds of being readmitted within a month. Medication adherence is a key factor in managing heart failure. Better compliance reduces complications and hospital visits, easing pressure on healthcare systems.
The findings suggest that low-cost text reminders can make a real difference in patient care. By improving prescription fill rates and lowering readmission risks, such interventions offer a practical way to support heart failure management. Hospitals may now consider similar programmes to help patients stay on track with their treatment.
