Self-determination Theory–based Interventions and Patient Adherence

The process of rehabilitation is often long and challenging, requiring active participation from the care team and the patient. Patient participation, however, is often lacking in rehabilitation settings.^1-3 Some of the most common reasons for patients’ lack of participation and adherence to treatment are poor communication with providers, complex treatment regimens, cost, and access barriers.^1,4 A lack of motivation has also been cited as a common reason for low adherence.¹ In a general sense, adherence is how closely and how often a patient follows the treatment plan recommended by their care team. The World Health Organization defines adherence as “the extent to which a person’s behavior…corresponds with agreed recommendations from a healthcare provider.”¹ Increased adherence has been linked to positive outcomes, including patient satisfaction, function, quality of life, and long-term overall health-related costs.^1,5