How does bias affect patient trust and outcomes?

• A. Bias has no impact on patient trust.
• B. Bias leads to more trust and better adherence.
• C. Bias improves patient engagement.
• D. Patients who feel judged or dismissed trust providers less, disclose fewer symptoms, are less adherent to treatment, and avoid future care — cumulatively worsening health outcomes and widening disparities.

Answer: (D)

Bias in healthcare undermines trust and hurts outcomes. When patients feel judged or dismissed because of aspects like race, gender, body size, language, or disability, they are less likely to share symptoms, disclose concerns, or follow through with treatment plans. They may also avoid future care, which leads to delays in diagnosis, worsening conditions, and broader disparities. The idea that bias would increase trust or engagement contradicts patients’ lived experiences and the evidence linking respectful, nonjudgmental care to better communication and adherence. In practice, reducing bias involves using person-first language, inviting patients to share all relevant information, explaining plans clearly, and adapting care to individual needs, which helps build trust and improve health outcomes.