Resumo

MARTIN ALFONSO, Libertad. On the concept of therapeutic adherence. Rev Cubana Salud Pública [online]. 2004, vol.30, n.4, pp. 0-0. ISSN 1561-3127.

An analysis was made of the various definitions that are included in medical and psychological literature regarding the adherence to medical treatment. The paper pointed out a set of terms that deal with the same aspect such as compliance, cooperation, alliance, adhesion and adherence to treatment, which may cause confusion among professionals, researchers and patients. The way in which these terms are considered and used, particularly compliance with and adherence to treatment were discussed. Finally, it is stated that the most appropriate term is adherence to treatment because of its psychological sense. The paper discussed those steps that are necessary for the process of adherence to treatment.

Palavras-chave : ADHERENCE TO TREATMENT; COMPLIANCE WITH TREATMENT; PATIENT COOPERATION; TREATMENT EFFICIENCY.