In a clinical context, what does "noncompliance" refer to?

In a clinical context, "noncompliance" specifically refers to patients not adhering to prescribed treatment regimens. This means that they may be failing to take medications as instructed, not following dietary recommendations, or not attending scheduled appointments. Noncompliance can significantly impact the effectiveness of treatment and the overall health outcomes for patients. Understanding this term is crucial for healthcare providers, as it helps identify barriers to effective care and encourages discussions on how to improve patients' adherence to their medical plans. Recognizing instances of noncompliance allows healthcare professionals to address the underlying issues that may be causing it, such as misunderstandings about the treatment, side effects of medications, or personal beliefs influencing health decisions.