Effect of Digital Follow-up Supported Patient Education on Immunosuppressive Medication Adherence and Quality of Life After Liver Transplantation

Overview

This randomized controlled study aimed to evaluate the effect of digital follow-up supported patient education on immunosuppressive medication adherence and quality of life in adult liver transplant recipients. Participants in both groups received standard discharge education. The intervention group additionally received structured digital follow-up messages for 12 weeks, while the control group received standard care only. Medication adherence and quality of life were assessed before and after the intervention using validated questionnaires.

Lifelong adherence to immunosuppressive medication is essential for preventing graft rejection and maintaining long-term graft survival after liver transplantation. However, medication non-adherence remains a common problem and may negatively affect patient outcomes and quality of life. Digital follow-up interventions may improve adherence by providing regular reminders and educational support after discharge. This single-blind randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Liver Transplant Center of Acibadem Kent Hospital, İzmir, Türkiye. Adult liver transplant recipients who met the eligibility criteria were randomly assigned to either a digital education group or a control group. All participants received standard discharge education. In addition, participants in the intervention group received structured digital follow-up messages for 12 weeks. The control group received routine follow-up care only. The primary outcome was immunosuppressive medication adherence, assessed using the Immunosuppressive Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). The secondary outcome was quality of life, assessed using the Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ 2.0). Outcomes were evaluated before the intervention and at the end of the 12-week follow-up period.