The Relationship Between Method of Physician Payment and Patient Trust

Abstract

THE PATIENT-PHYSICIAN relationship is built on a foundation of trust.^1-4 Many health plans have implemented payment methods that place physicians at financial risk for providing medical services. This shift in the way that physicians are paid has raised issues about the impact of payment methods on patient trust.^5-10 Many practice and physician characteristics might influence patient trust,^11,12 but many people are most concerned about the potential effects of payment methods on physician behavior and decision making,^13-16 and how such changes could influence patients' trust in their physicians. Trust also could be directly shaped by patients' perceptions of, and attitudes about, how their physicians are paid.^17,18