Why Trust Matters Now More Than Ever

Trust in healthcare has taken a hit in recent years. From the confusion around COVID-19 to rising medical costs and the increasing complexity of the system, many patients are feeling more skeptical, overwhelmed, or even alienated. As a radiologist and someone who’s spent my entire career in medicine, I’ve seen this erosion of trust up close—not only in patient interactions but also in the conversations we have within our own teams.

And while it might seem like radiologists work mostly behind the scenes, I believe we have a critical role to play in rebuilding that trust. At its core, medicine is still about people caring for people. And trust begins with transparency, good communication, and a commitment to doing what’s right—even when it’s hard.

From the Reading Room to the Real World

Radiology can sometimes feel like a hidden corner of healthcare. Patients often never meet the radiologist interpreting their images. But what we do carries enormous weight. A diagnosis, a recommendation, even a missed finding—these things can completely alter someone’s life. That’s why I believe radiologists need to step out of the shadows a bit more.

I’ve made it a priority to be accessible to referring physicians and patients whenever possible. Whether it’s explaining findings in more relatable terms or simply making myself available for a quick conversation, I’ve found that personal interaction goes a long way. Even a short, thoughtful explanation helps patients feel seen and heard—and reinforces that there’s a human being behind the images.

Trust doesn’t just come from getting it “right.” It comes from taking the time to connect.

Transparency Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned over the years is that patients can handle difficult news. What they can’t handle is being left in the dark. And yet, too often, we use overly technical language or delay communication because we’re trying to “protect” the patient or buy time for more data.

But in today’s world, where information is everywhere, people want clarity. They want to know what’s going on, what we’re doing about it, and what they can expect next. That doesn’t mean giving false certainty—it means being honest, empathetic, and timely.

Transparency also applies to our systems. Patients deserve to know how their care is coordinated, what their imaging means, how their data is handled, and what options are available. When we leave people guessing, we create space for fear and mistrust to grow.

Technology Can Help—But Only If We Use It Wisely

We live in a time of incredible technological advancement. AI is making headlines in radiology, with promises of faster reads, more accurate diagnostics, and streamlined workflows. I’m genuinely excited about these tools. Used properly, they can enhance the way we care for patients and allow us to focus more on the human side of medicine.

But technology alone can’t rebuild trust. In fact, if we’re not careful, it can make things worse. Algorithms without context, chatbots instead of conversations, automated systems that feel cold or dismissive—these can further distance patients from their providers.

We need to make sure technology supports transparency and connection, not replaces it. That means integrating AI thoughtfully, ensuring patients still feel a human presence, and using tech to improve—not shortcut—our communication.

A Culture of Communication Starts from the Top

Whether you’re leading a practice, a department, or an entire healthcare system, creating a culture where communication is valued has to start with leadership. As CEO of our radiology group, I’ve made it a point to encourage open dialogue—not just with patients, but within our team.

Radiologists, technologists, referring doctors—we all need to be on the same page. That means regular check-ins, clear protocols, and making sure people feel safe asking questions or raising concerns. When we take care of our team, they’re better equipped to take care of patients.

I also believe in leading by example. I try to model the kind of transparency and empathy I expect from others. That includes admitting when we’ve made mistakes and taking ownership, because trust is built in those vulnerable moments too.

Rebuilding Trust Takes Time—but It’s Worth It

There’s no quick fix to rebuild trust in healthcare. It takes time, consistency, and a genuine desire to do better. But the payoff is huge. When patients trust us, they’re more likely to follow through with care, ask questions, and feel confident in their treatment. That makes outcomes better, relationships stronger, and the work we do more meaningful.

As a radiologist and as someone who cares deeply about the future of medicine, I believe we have a choice. We can stay behind the curtain—or we can step into the light, engage with patients, and show them who we really are.

We’re not just experts reading images. We’re partners in care. And the more transparent, compassionate, and communicative we are, the more trust we’ll earn back—one conversation at a time.