What is a potential consequence of non-compliance with prescribed medication regimens?

Non-compliance with prescribed medication regimens can lead to an increased risk of disease progression. When patients do not take their medications as directed, whether due to forgetting doses, experiencing side effects, or misunderstanding instructions, they may not receive the therapeutic benefits intended from the treatment. This failure to adhere to medication schedules can result in worsening of existing health conditions, complications, or even the development of new health issues. Consequently, patients may require more intensive interventions, face hospitalizations, or experience a decline in overall health status.

The other outcomes presented are generally positive and unlikely to occur as a result of non-compliance. Improvement in health outcomes and reduction in healthcare costs are typically associated with adherence to medication regimens, while enhanced communication with healthcare providers usually stems from engaging actively with prescribed treatments rather than neglecting them. Therefore, the correlation between non-compliance and the increased risk of disease progression is clear and significant.