adherence
n. the ability of an individual to conform to a treatment regimen, especially one involving drug treatment, as outlined by a health care provider. External factors that affect adherence may include appropriate education regarding a drug and its use, the individual’s ability to pay for or otherwise obtain the treatment recommended, and familial or cultural value systems influencing the acceptability of the treatment to the individual. Internal factors include the individual’s belief in the potency of the treatment, the presence or absence of unpleasant side effects, and the individual’s capability to understand or conform to instructions given by the health care provider. Also called compliance
See also nonadherence..