Adherence or Compliance? Changes in Terminology

Abstract

The terminology used in healthcare-related literature has been shown to reflect not only the knowledge of the practitioners, but also their beliefs and attitudes regarding patient care. One great area of change has been the inclusion of the patient in the determination and success of therapy, with the term “adherence” seeming to indicate this action more accurately than ”compliance.” Hugh H Tilson has been practicing within the public health arena for many years and so is knowledgeable about this altered philosophy in pharmacy practice. Within this editorial, he discusses the implications of the evolution of practitioners' approach to health care. Based on these changes, we will now begin using the term “adherence” in The Annals to reflect the partnership between the healthcare provider and patient.