Historically, there have been valid reasons for mistrust of the medical establishment for people of color. However, this lack of trust can lead to further harm in African American and other marginalized communities, from vaccine hesitancy to delays in seeking adequate care for acute and chronic illness. Trust in the healthcare system is critical for improved outcomes and, ultimately, a better quality of life. Having access to a good primary care doctor (and regular check-ups) means that conditions can be prevented, detected at early stages, and effectively treated, lowering the risk of complications — and even death.

Here are five easy tips for establishing trust in doctor-patient relationships.

1. Seek Culturally Competent Care: The characteristics of a culturally competent doctor can include being an active listener, having empathy for the communities they serve, taking steps to overcome language barriers, and showing respect for diverse cultures and beliefs, which can help strengthen trust between you and your doctor.

1. Be Prepared: Before your appointment, make a detailed list of all your health concerns and any changes or new symptoms you need to share with the doctor, so you don’t forget to discuss anything important. Be sure to discuss the most significant issue first to ensure it's not missed! Also, include a list of all your current medications and their dosages. This allows both you and your doctor to be focused and fully present in the short time you have together.

1. Be Open: Remember that trust goes both ways. Providing inaccurate information or leaving out important details about your habits and medical history can negatively affect your health and the care you receive, so always be upfront, and don’t let fear of judgment or embarrassment get in your way. Your doctor’s office and any other medical establishment should be a no-judgment zone.

1. Bring Support: For older patients and anyone nervous about seeing the doctor, it can be helpful to bring a friend or family member along to listen and take notes. This support not only helps clarify what is being communicated, ensuring no essential information is missed, but it also can go a long way in easing fears.

1. Take Action: Before you leave the doctor’s office, make sure all your medical concerns have been adequately addressed and that you leave with a solid plan of action. Take charge of your own health by scheduling any necessary lab tests and follow-up appointments. And know that it is okay to contact your doctor if questions come up after your visit.

It’s also important to be your own advocate. If your doctor is dismissive of your concerns, or you are dissatisfied with the quality of your care in any way, speak up and communicate those concerns with your doctor, office manager, or your insurance company. When all else fails, don’t hesitate to find another doctor in your community — one that is both culturally competent and trustworthy!

Growing up in North Philadelphia, the Twin Sister Docs witnessed a massive gap between their community and its healthcare professionals. Boasting a largely African American and Latinx population, the community’s needs were largely neglected by medical establishments made up primarily of non-African American doctors with no ties to the neighborhoods in which they practiced. This neglect not only produced skepticism; it also drove a wedge between the community and the medical services they desperately needed. The Twin Sister Docs, recognizing they are uniquely qualified, seek to bridge that gap, restore trust in medical professionals, and transform these multicultural communities through reliable health care.