1. Determine the reason for noncompliance.
2. Do one of the following:
•If noncompliance is due to financial reasons, provide free samples when possible and refer to programs that can help provide their medication.
•If noncompliance is due to not wanting to make an effort, counsel the patient to make sure they understand the importance of following the treatment as prescribed and the consequences for not doing so.
•If noncompliance is due to forgetfulness, encourage the patient to take advantage of automated reminders and buddy programs to keep them on track.
3. Discharge a patient only as a last resort only after repeated attempts to find out why the patient is disruptive or won't comply with your advice.
Note It is important to end the physician-patient relationship carefully to avoid getting sued for abandonment or discrimination. Consult your liability insurer for the protocols and sample letters you can use to reduce your risk for a lawsuit when you discharge a patient.