<![CDATA[Medication adherence is a critical factor in the successful management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Poor adherence may lead to uncontrolled blood glucose levels and increased risk of complications. This study aimed to analyze the level of medication adherence and its association with patient characteristics among T2DM patients at Lepo-Lepo Primary Health Center, Kendari City. This study used an analytical observational design with a cross-sectional approach. A total of 81 respondents were selected using purposive sampling. Medication adherence was assessed using the Morisky Medication adherence was assessed using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8), a widely validated and reliable instrument. The MMAS-8 has demonstrated good psychometric properties, with reported Cronbach’s alpha values ranging from 0.61 to 0.83 across different populations, indicating acceptable internal consistency. In addition, previous validation studies have confirmed its construct validity and reliability in patients with chronic diseases, including Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, making it appropriate for measuring medication adherence in this study. Data were analyzed descriptively. The majority of respondents were aged 50–60 years and had a duration of diabetes of less than 5 years. Most patients demonstrated low medication adherence (MMAS-8 score <6), while a smaller proportion showed moderate adherence (score 6–7), and no respondents achieved high adherence (score = 8). Common non-adherence behaviors included forgetting to take medication, stopping medication when feeling better, and inconsistent medication intake. Medication adherence among T2DM patients at Lepo-Lepo Primary Health Center remains suboptimal, with the majority classified as having low adherence. ]]>
