Mediating role of patient trust in the impact of perceived physician communication on treatment adherence and its implication in healthcare industry

This study investigated the relationship between perceived physician communication and treatment adherence and the mediating role of patient trust in the relationship. Although various studies on the influence of modifiable factors on treatment adherence have been carried out, the specific pathways via, which such communication promotes adherence, are less known. Data was collected from 231 outpatients via an online survey and analyzed through regression analysis using Hayes process macro. Although the results showed no statistically significant direct effect between perceived physician communication and treatment adherence, patient trust was shown to fully mediate the indirect effect of the relationship. The study highlighted the importance of trust in patient–physician relationships and how it influenced treatment adherence. The findings emphasized the need for patient-centered communication approaches that enhance mutual understanding and shared decision-making. It also underscored the need for further research on the ways through which patient trust is influenced by physician communication and how to develop and implement effective communication interventions that enhance trust and improve treatment adherence among patients. Patients’ feedback on their perceptions of physician communication could be gathered and used to identify areas for improvement and target training efforts.