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Recent Study: Avella Shows Significant Adherence Improvement & Cost Savings

Written by Avella Specialty Pharmacy | Thu, Feb 27, 2014

Medication non-adherence is a serious issue that impacts clinical outcomes and contributes to rising healthcare costs. In fact, 20-30% of prescriptions written are never filled by patients, and around half of medications for chronic conditions are not taken as prescribed.  As a result of this, patients may experience preventable complications, disease progression, acute events and hospitalizations.

To better understand these challenges and work toward a solution, Avella, in partnership with the University of Arizona and the National Institute of Health (NIH), conducted a research study that reveals the impact of specific medication adherence strategies.  The study sample included renal transplant recipients who were at least one year post-transplant and served by Avella. The research study found that participants in the intervention group had a statistically significant improvement in adherence rates over patients in the control group who did not have a contract or receive support to ensure adherence to their monthly medication therapy. 

We invite you to view the findings from this clinical trial and learn more about our adherence "toolkit" in our latest video.

Objective
  • Assess the effects of a behavioral contract on adherence 
  • Determine the effects of intervention on direct healthcare utilization and costs
Hypothesis
  • Behavioral contracting and pharmacist interventions will enhance a renal transplant recipient’s engagement in their medication therapy
Conclusion
  • Study results found participants in the intervention group had a statistically significant improvement in adherence rates over patients in the control group, and were 78% more likely not to be hospitalized, saving $27,852/month in healthcare costs

At Avella, our pharmacists are trusted health advisors, and act as an extension of the patient's overall care team.  That's why we have developed a variety of solutions to address key factors that contribute to non-adherence, including:

  • forgetfulness
  • health literacy
  • adverse effects
  • cost

We offer extensive counseling to patients in order to identify and overcome any barriers to adherence. Our dedicated Prior Authorization and Funding teams work to speed the process of medications and secure financial assistance to our patients.

Learn more about our technology-driven adherence programs, and how we offer unsurpassed value to providers.