Adherence to Hypertensive Treatment among Vietnamese Patients in New Orleans

Adherence to treatment prescribed by providers is a critical way to control hypertension. Many Vietnamese patients experience hypertension and poor adherence, but there is minimal literature that examines this topic. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study aimed to identify the adherence rate to antihypertensive treatment in Vietnamese patients residing in New Orleans, as well as examine the perspectives of providers and patients on what influences adherence. Abstract Objectives Our principal objectives were to identify the level of adherence and identify the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that influence adherence to antihypertensive treatment among Vietnamese patients in New Orleans, Louisiana. Methods By partnering with a community health center serving the Vietnamese community in New Orleans, we conducted reviews of 250 medical records of hypertensive patients receiving care there, 3 provider interviews, and 8 patient interviews. Descriptive and thematic analyses were used. Results The level of treatment nonadherence in our sample population was 20.40%. Findings highlighted several key factors that may contribute to adherence, including easy access to providers, who are culturally competent and have used several strategies to help increase adherence, and the social support network of patients within a close-knit community. Other sociodemographic factors, such as age, sex, and tobacco and alcohol use also may play a role in adherence. Conclusions Adherence to antihypertensive treatment among Vietnamese patients in New Orleans was relatively high compared with other ethnic and racial groups in the United States. Further assessment of the characteristics of patients, providers, and the community may improve adherence to other chronic conditions in this population and patients of other ethnicities and races.