NIH Adherence Research Network
The NIH Adherence Research Network is now a trans-NIH scientific interest group, as of January 2011. This new website is under construction. Those on the NIH network still can access the original Adherence Network intranet site at http://obssr-intranet.od.nih.gov/Adherence.
The Adherence Network is a trans-NIH initiative whose goal is to provide leadership and vision for adherence research at NIH. Adherence is defined as the extent to which a person's behavior (in terms of taking medication, following a diet, modifying habits, or attending health care appointments) coincides with evidence-based medical or health advice. Adherence research is relevant to the nation's health and well-being. Poor adherence to prescription medications and treatments has been labeled a "worldwide problem of striking magnitude" (World Health Organization, 2003). Research over the last 40 years has documented universally poor adherence to prescription medications and bio-behavioral treatments. For example, up to 20% of patients fail to new prescriptions and 50% of people with chronic health conditions discontinue their medication within six months. Access to medical care is vitally important, but if people do not comply with their professional recommendations, then mere access will not lead to better health outcomes.
The mission of the Adherence Network is to pursue opportunities for strengthening cross-disciplinary adherence research at the NIH while innovating beyond existing investments. Its goals are to:
- provide leadership, vision, and support to promote a strong body of adherence research funded by the NIH,
- evaluate and disseminate scientific information and funding opportunities for adherence research at NIH.
The Network achieves these goals by generating trans-NIH funding announcements, hosting speakers, and supporting panels and symposium at conferences. In spring 2011, the Network will host their second scientific meeting, this one with a focus on adherence measurement.
The Network meets monthly on the third Thursday from 2-3 p.m. at rotating sites on/off-campus.
To join the Network, please contact Wendy Nilsen at nilsenwj@od.nih.gov
The Network listserv address is ADHERENCE_NETWORK@LIST.NIH.GOV. To join the listserv, click here.