Background

Trust in the patient–physician relationship plays a crucial role in promoting adherence to treatment among patients in general public hospitals.

Objectives

The study aimed to investigate patient–physician trust and patient adherence to treatment among outpatients, a topic that has received limited attention in literature.

Material and methods

In this cross-sectional study, 666 patients who attended outpatient clinics of a main tertiary setting in the Kurdistan Region were invited through a suitable convenience sampling technique.

Results

Results indicated that trust levels were higher in younger and older patients compared to middle-aged groups, as well as in rural residents, those with chronic diseases, and individuals with lower or higher educational levels. Regarding adherence, patients in specific age groups (16–19, 40–49, 50–59) demonstrated higher adherence compared to the 70–80 age group, and those with chronic diseases and white-collar occupations exhibited better adherence. The study highlighted a significant percentage of patients lacking trust in physicians regarding disease management, medical care preferences, and privacy. A considerable number of outpatients expressed negative opinions on treatment adherence. Increased trust correlated with improved adherence levels, medication adherence behavior, and positive attitudes toward medication, while negative side effects and attitudes toward psychotropic medication decreased with higher trust.

Conclusions

The study concluded that the region exhibited a low level of trust between outpatients and physicians, significantly influencing treatment adherence. Key factors influencing adherence included trust in physicians, having chronic diseases, and being a non-smoker. Overall, the research emphasized the critical role of trust in enhancing patient adherence to treatment in outpatient settings.