The Communicative Relationship Between Physician and Patient and Its Role in Enhancing Trust in Physicians: A field study on a sample of patients frequenting Misrata Medical Center

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between physician-patient communication and its impact on enhancing trust in physicians. It was based on a field study conducted on a sample of patients attending the Misurata Medical Center. The primary objective was to evaluate the level of communication between physicians and patients and its role in building confidence in the physicians’ professional and human competence. The research employed a descriptive-analytical approach and utilized the social survey methodology with a non-random, accidental sample. A questionnaire was used as the data collection instrument, administered to a total sample size of 95 participants. The findings revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between the quality of the physician's positive communication and the degree of trust demonstrated by the patient. Furthermore, the results indicated a strong correlation between the physician's verbal communication style and the level of patient trust. A similar relationship was observed between the physician's non-verbal communication (such as gestures, tone of voice, and body language) and patient trust. The study also prominently highlighted the significant role of the physician's listening and persuasion skills in considerably enhancing the level of patient trust. The study concluded with several recommendations, foremost among them being the integration of human communication skills into physician training programs, and fostering a culture of positive dialogue within healthcare institutions to improve the quality of patient care and services. Additionally, it suggested implementing future comparative studies between public and private healthcare institutions.