ABSTRACT
Compliance is a multifaceted, complex construct that has a critical impact on medical research and treatment of respiratory disorders. Compliance is a concept that affects all members of the health care community, including physicians, therapists, nurses, pharmacists, and patients. This chapter outlines the core issues and problems surrounding the significance, definition, measurement, and factors influencing patient decisions about treatment. In addition, the issue of physician compliance is discussed in terms of its impact on quality of treatment and on addressing patient noncompliance. Finally, suggestions are made to enhance patient-physician efforts to improve treatment acceptance.
