INTRODUCTION: Hypertension is a key modifiable risk factor for myocardial infarction and stroke, yet medication adherence remains low. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated the management of chronic diseases like hypertension. This study aimed to explore the correlation between the patient-doctor relationship and medication adherence among hypertensive Filipinos aged 40-65 years in the Greater Manila Area during the pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 131 hypertensive Filipino participants. Data were collected through an online survey, assessing participant demographic and medical profiles, medication adherence using the Hill-Bone Compliance Scale (HBCS), and the patient-doctor relationship using the Physician-Doctor Relationship Questionnaire-9 (PDRQ-9). RESULTS: Approximately half of the participants demonstrated good adherence to hypertension medication. A weak but significant positive correlation was found between overall medication adherence and the patient-doctor relationship. The duration of anti-hypertensive drug intake also showed a weak positive correlation with medication adherence. Factors such as comorbidities and type of consultation did not significantly impact medication adherence. CONCLUSION This study emphasizes the significance of the patient-doctor relationship in medication adherence among hypertensive Filipinos during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enhancing communication and trust between patients and physicians can potentially improve medication adherence and overall disease management.
COVID-19 ; hypertension ; medication adherence ; perception ; anti-hypertensive agents ; cross- sectional