Trust-Building Factors in Patient-Physician Relationship: A Qualitative Study

Trust-building factors in Patient‒Physician relationship: a qualitative study. Background: Trust plays a significant role in establishing patient‒physician relationships. This study, as part of a deeper investigation, aimed to determine trust-building factors in patient‒physician relationships. Methods: This qualitative study included a literature review, group discussions, semistructured interviews, and data analysis. From spring 2019 to 2022, we conducted literature reviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), semistructured interviews, and thematic analysis. In the summer of 2021, we conducted 8 FGDs and interviewed 42 participants from Tehran University of Medical Sciences. The data were analyzed, and the results were classified. Results: The statements were categorized into internal and external factors affecting trust. Internal factors arise directly from patient‒physician interactions. External factors include global trust, media influence, the Ministry of Health and other sources. Hence, 12 internal factors and three external factors were identified. Conclusion: Internal and external factors influencing trust in the patient‒physician relationship were identified. Improving external factors requires societal efforts, whereas internal factors can be addressed through enhanced academic courses. Moreover, these 15 factors could inform future questionnaires measuring trust.