With the aim of improving patient compliance with medication regimens, we conducted a questionnaire survey on outpatients who had been diagnosed with asymptomatic cerebrovascular infarction after brain disease screening. Prior to the survey, we gave them instructions to take prescribed medications correctly, using explanatory leaflets. To the question “What do you want to know the most about the drug”, a majority of the respondents said “possible side effects.” “Efficacy” came second. There were some patients who said that they are not much inclined to know about the drug because they entrust the doctor with everything as far as medical treatment is concerned.
Later, to confirm their compliance with prescribed drug regimens, we made a follow-up survery. The results showed that all (almost all?) the patients had a good understanding of the use as well as the dosage of the drug, but that they han not read well the explanatory leaflets.
In this country, medical care services for inpatients have been improved. However, there is still much to be desired about the approach to outpatients who need a proper follow-up. To meet the need of outpatients, we would like to make use of what we have learned from the recent experience.