COMPLIANCE IN RHEUMATOID-ARTHRITIS AND THE ROLE OF FORMAL PATIENT EDUCATION

Objective: This study was performed to determine the compliance with t he basic treatments for rheumatoid arthritis (RA; medication, physical therapy, and ergonomic measures), to study psychological factors that influence compliance in light of the social learning theory, to learn whether patient education positively influences compliance and health , and to find an approach to patient education that improves complianc e. Methods: A MEDLINE search of the English language literature was pe rformed. Results: Few studies have dealt with compliance in RA patient s; levels of adherence are generally low. According to the social lear ning theory, human function involves a continuous interaction between behavior, personal factors, and external environment. Self-efficacy is a personal factor that refers to the belief in one's capabilities and opportunities for being compliant with treatment advice. Patient educ ation may improve ergonomic performance and compliance with physical e xercise programs. Conclusions: Compliance with medication was infreque ntly studied. Whether improved compliance leads to better health statu s could not be determined. Compliance with RA treatments are generally low. Systematic study of the effect of patient education on treatment and health is warranted. Self-efficacy enhancing techniques in patien t education may improve compliance. Copyright (C) 1997 by W.B. Saunder s Company.