09/03/2026
The Monthly Dose: Medication Adherence 💊
Taking medication as prescribed is a critical part of managing chronic conditions, but medication nonadherence remains a significant challenge across the healthcare system.
According to the CDC, about 50% of medications for chronic diseases are not taken as prescribed. Earlier CDC research also found that approximately 1 in 5 new prescriptions are never filled, while roughly half of filled prescriptions are taken incorrectly, including issues with timing, dosage, frequency, or duration.
The impact extends beyond the prescription itself. The American Heart Association estimates that poor medication adherence contributes to approximately 125,000 deaths each year and as much as $300 billion in additional U.S. healthcare costs annually.
Cost, side effects, complex treatment plans, access, and other barriers can all make it harder for people to stay on track. For employers, health plans, and the broader healthcare industry, improving adherence means looking beyond whether a medication was prescribed and understanding what may prevent someone from taking it as intended.
How can we make it easier for people to stay on track with their medications?