Medwire (5/1, McDermid) reports, “Patients with bipolar disorder [BD] are more likely to adhere to their medication if they have a positive perception of their relationship with their psychiatrist,” according to a study published online April 19 in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology. “A range of positive factors in the Helping Alliance Questionnaire were significantly associated with medication adherence in the 3,337 patients with bipolar disorder who participated in the six-year study. These were being dependent on the psychiatrist, having a good relationship with them, respecting their views, and having meaningful exchanges with them.” Patients also had a higher likelihood of adhering to their medication if they felt understood by their psychiatrists.
Related Links:
— “Therapeutic alliance influences bipolar disorder medication adherence, “Eleanor McDermid, Medwire News, May 1, 2013.