• Ming Chiang Lim, Ernieda Hatah, Kay Chee Lai, Asdayati Buang, Tze Juin Koay, Wendy Jia Yii Sim, and Suet Chee Ng.
• Pharmacy Department, Hospital Banting, Selangor, 42700, Malaysia.
• Patient Prefer Adher. 2022 Jan 1; 16: 313331423133-3142.

PurposePrevious studies show that customer loyalty and purchase intentions were influenced by perceived product value, but little is known about the factors that influence patients' perceptions of the value of their subsidized prescriptions, when purchasing of medications were not required, and how these factors influence their medication adherence. Hence, this study aims to investigate perceptions of patients receiving subsidized medications regarding the value of their medication.Patients And MethodsThis qualitative study involved semi-structured, face-to-face interviews with patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus at a government district hospital in Selangor state, Malaysia between June to September 2019. Using purposive sampling, patients were identified at an out-patient pharmacy during prescription refill. They were asked how they perceived the value of their medication. Interviews were audio recorded and then transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis.ResultsA total of thirty patients were interviewed. Patients' perceptions on the value of medications were influenced by several factors such as trust, how the medications impact on their physical and social well-beings, and the perceived sacrificed made when the medications were procured and used. Perceptions on medication values were influenced by the recommendation received from someone they trust such as their doctors or significant others. It was also influenced by their perceptions of how the medication helps to improve their disease symptoms and affect their religious and social activities. Other factors include the perceived worth of the sacrifices made to access and use the medication.ConclusionIdentifying factors that may influence patients' perceived value of the medication may help improve healthcare practices.© 2022 Lim et al.

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