Barriers to treatment and rehabilitation adherence after stroke in Agadir, Morocco

Background. Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity, mortality, and long-term disability globally. Treatment and rehabilitation adherence critically influence recovery and secondary prevention. Aim. To assess treatment and functional rehabilitation adherence among stroke patients in Agadir, Morocco. Methods. A mixed-methods, cross-sectional study was conducted (Jan–Jun 2025) with 83 post-stroke patients at CIROR, Agadir. Data were collected via semi-structured questionnaires and medical record reviews. Results. Non-adherence to medical treatment was high (67%), primarily due to financial constraints (60%) and distance to facilities (49%). Only 21.7% received high-quality rehabilitation. A strong association existed between patients’ treatment understanding and adherence (χ² = 78.6; p < 0.001). Contribution. Low adherence and rehabilitation access are linked to socioeconomic, cognitive, and structural barriers, underscoring the need for tailored, sustained patient education in resource-limited settings. Conclusion. Significant gaps persist in post-stroke care adherence and rehabilitation access. Strengthening patient education, improving financial and geographical access, and implementing personalized support are urgently needed to optimize long-term outcomes in Morocco’s underserved regions.