Why Trust in Health Care Matters Now More Than Ever

As both parents and physicians, we remember the anxiety of navigating health decisions for our young children. Conflicting studies left us wondering if we were making the right choices for our respective families. Thankfully, we each trusted our children’s pediatricians. Even though we are medical professionals, we still asked questions, listened and worked closely with the experts to find an approach that guided each of our young families.

That trust is a lifeline.
Today, health advice seems to change constantly, and it comes at us — sometimes unsolicited — from all directions. One day we hear, “do this,” and the next day it’s “don’t.” When clarity disappears — especially around preventive measures like vaccines — conflicting information fills the gap, and trust erodes.

As health system leaders, we’ve seen what happens when distrust takes root. Patients delay screenings, skip preventive care or avoid treatment altogether. These delays can turn manageable conditions into life-threatening emergencies, straining families, finances, communities, and the entire health system.

Health care is deeply personal, and at its core is a foundation of trust between patients and providers. When that trust weakens, people hesitate or turn to potentially unreliable sources.

When patients trust their doctors, they are more likely to share key health information, follow treatment advice and be more diligent about their own health care. Trust is the bedrock of open dialogue, respect, and empathy, leading to higher patient satisfaction and better health outcomes.

“Continuity of care — such as seeing the same provider over time or coordinating treatments across different specialties — helps patients perceive their care as seamless and dependable. This consistency encourages them to trust that their health concerns are being attentively managed and that their provider truly understands their health journey.

Involving patients actively in decisions about their treatment options further boosts trust. When patients are empowered to participate, they are more likely to feel confident in their care plans and to view the healthcare system as transparent and respectful,” Raveco Medical. 

So how do we restore trust?
For patients, your voice matters. Ask questions, share your concerns, and talk about what matters most to you. Your primary care doctor knows your history and can help you find the best options for your family’s health. These conversations aren’t just helpful — they are essential.

Trust between patients and providers declined during COVID-19, but the data indicate trust is on the rise. According to PatientPoint.com, trust increased by 33 percent from 2023 to 2024. Reasons for the increase include:
• Feeling heard and respected by the doctor
• Overall experience with the doctor
• Doctor taking the patient’s background into consideration

62% of patients received the majority of their health information from their healthcare provider. That’s more than any other source, including search engines, social media and family members.

For providers, trust starts with transparency. Staying current with evidence-based research and involving patients in the conversation. Clear, honest communication builds confidence that you have your patients’ goals and best interests at heart.

The good news, according to PatientPoint.com, is that fewer patients are scared to ask their primary care physician about their health condition or symptoms. In 2023, 46 percent were scared. That number decreased significantly in 2024 to 25 percent.

Let’s work together to make restoring trust a shared priority, because in the end, it isn’t just a value. Trust is a prescription for health. ABI