Background: The use of evidence-based medications is recommended for the management of stable coronary artery disease (CAD). Non-adherence to prescribed medications is common.

Purpose: To determine the effect of an educational intervention on medication adherence in persons with CAD receiving care in a general cardiology clinic.

Methods: This quality improvement project was conducted to determine the appropriateness of incorporating a brief medication adherence education intervention at a clinic serving patients with CAD. Eligibility criteria included males and females, ages 18 to 65, diagnosed with CAD, non-adherent to medications, on one or more CAD medications, and independent in taking medications. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Medication adherence was assessed using the four-item Morisky Green Levine medication adherence scale (MGLS) at the clinic before the intervention and by telephone four weeks later.

Results: A total of 20 participants enrolled in the project. Out of 20 participants, 18 participated in the follow-up. A Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test revealed a statistically significant difference in the mean summary scores for the pre-test (=1.25, SD=.85) and the post-test scores (=.11, SD=.47) Z=-.31^b, p =.001 (two-tailed), with a small effect size (r=.07). The median score on the MGLS scale decreased from pre-intervention (Md=1.5) to post-education (Md=.000).