Compliance is a real issue for far too many veterinarians and pet owners. Many pet owners don’t realize the risks and consequences of abandoning or interrupting treatment, and most are not aware of other options that could make administering medications more pleasant for them and their pets. When they become frustrated with administering medication, they may just decide to take their business elsewhere. When non-compliance results in unhappy clients, it could cost a veterinary practice in
dollars and cents.
Several studies have been conducted recently regarding non-compliance among companion animals. Some of the findings may be surprising:
- The rate of compliance for chronic medication is just 76%. That means an astounding 24% of pets aren’t being treated with the medications they need to live healthier lives — and in some cases, simply to live.
- Pet owners who are shown one or more ways to administer medication had a significantly higher rate of compliance (73% vs. 59% for those not shown). Yet, only 43% of practices show pet owners how to administer medication.
- 60% of owners would pay more for medication that is palatable or easy to administer.
- 93% of veterinarians say that compliance monitoring has a positive impact on their practice.
- 72% of pet owners would like to receive information in writing about their pets’ medication so they could refer back to it.
Simply put, an animal can’t get well if it doesn’t accept its medicine. Improved compliance equals improved outcomes. Ease of compliance also is a key factor in client satisfaction.
All of the facts in this section are drawn from Albers J, DVM, Hardesty C. Compliance: Taking Quality Care to the Next Level. Lakewood, CO: AAHA Press; 2009:5.
Learn more about the role of compounding in veterinary practice
We've recently published a guide to compounding pharmacy in veterinary practice as an ebook downloadable from our website. In it, you will get a comprehensive overview of
- the most commonly prescribed compounds
- when to and when not to prescribe a compounded medication
- how dosage forms and flavoring may increase patient (and owner) compliance
- instruction on how to write a prescription for a compounded preparation
- statistics on how veterinarians are using compounds in their own practice
- information on how to choose a compounding pharmacy for your practice
Your copy of the Guide to Compounding Pharmacy in Veterinary Practice from Wedgewood Pharmacy is now available for download.
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Renee Lupo, R.Ph., F.A.C.A., F.A.C.V.P.
Technical-Services Pharmacist |
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About Renee Lupo
Renee Lupo, R. Ph, F.A.C.A., F.A.C.V.P., technical-services pharmacist for Wedgewood Pharmacy, was the company's lead
technical/clinical pharmacist, working with prescribers and their staffs to develop custom formulations. She passed away on May 31, 2012,
after a brief illness. A scholarship was established in
her name at the University of the Sciences.
Disclaimers:
The views expressed on this blog are solely those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions or positions of Wedgewood Pharmacy.
Medications compounded by Wedgewood Pharmacy are prepared at the direction of a veterinarian. Many compounded preparations are commonly prescribed, and supported by literature, to treat particular disease states, but you should always consult your veterinarian before taking or administering any compounded medication. Wedgewood Pharmacy does not make claims for the efficacy of its compounded preparations.