Medication Adherence in Kosovo - Healthcare Key Opinion Creators’ Perspective

Medication non-adherence remains a major challenge in healthcare systems worldwide,
with significant implications for patient outcomes and healthcare costs. This study ex-
plored the perceptions and practices of Key Opinion Creators (KOCs) in Kosovo regarding
medication adherence. Using a qualitative approach, 15 participants representing hospitals,
pharmacies, academia, pharmaceutical companies, insurance, and professional associations
were surveyed through open-ended questionnaires. Findings reveal the absence of clear
national policies or guidelines dedicated to adherence, limited monitoring systems, and
insufficient institutional support. While KOCs recognize healthcare professionals’ (HPs)
role in patient education, counseling, and monitoring, they also stressed that their engage-
ment is often fragmented and lacks standardized reporting mechanisms. Technology and
innovation were identified as promising tools to improve adherence, but their application
is limited by inadequate infrastructure and resources. Key barriers include a lack of guide-
lines, financial and human resource constraints, low patient education, and disparities
across demographic groups. The study highlights the urgent need for coordinated policies,
stronger inter-professional collaboration, targeted interventions, and integration of digital
health solutions to strengthen medication adherence practices in Kosovo.