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 explored 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 engagement 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 guidelines, 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.