Question

Since non-adherence is a widespread problem in clinical practice, should a risk assessment of each patient occur prior to initiating treatment? Should this risk assessment be part of the minimal standard of acceptable care? After all, health is dependent on the ability of physicians and hospitals to communicate with their patients.

Answer 1

The Non-adherence to treatment is a common and potentially risky phenomenon in routine clinical practice which may lead to the improper cure of patients.

It is seen that Non-adherence leads to serious clinical results as well as being a challenge for public health.

Hence to avoid such problems in clinical practices there is need to conduct risk assessment of each patient prior to initiate the treatment.

Risk assessment is the process of identifying the potential hazards which may arise during the therapy.

The purpose of this process is to assist health care professionals to:

•     Clarify the patient therapy to ensure accountabilities and liabilities

•     Define the risks & hazards associated with the therapy

•     Develop the proper risk mitigation plans

“And yes this risk assessment is the part of minimal standard care apart from that the healthcare professionals should follow the patient history and proceed for individualization of patient therapy, for well and effective treatment during their clinical practices”

Furthermore this is well established criteria that the health is totally dependent on the ability of physicians & hospitals to communicate with their patients.

So it is highly advisable that the patient care should be in proper concerns with the patients at the desired level as per code of ethics.

All the best.