Introduction.

Trust is an inherent component of the physician-patient relationship. Although the factors that influence it have been examined in the literature, as well as the consequences that they may have for the patient’s health, there has been scant reflection towards the purpose of educating health professionals so that they become involved as active builders of this value. This is essential, since it emphasizes a more exhaustive anamnesis and physical examination, consented diagnosis procedures and patient trust in treatment decisions suggested and worked out together with the physician.

Methods.

This narrative review is an analysis of the literature on the subject.

Results.

This narrative review illustrates some of the factors that influence trust, such as communication style, body mass index, and information displayed on social networks by the physician. It also deals with some of the consequences that may appear and that are relevant to clinical practice and patient’s health, such as adherence to treatment, continuity of care with the physician, and changes in physical functioning after intensive therapies.

Conclusions.

In conclusion, the weight of the factors that influence trust is highlighted and it is established that there is lack of knowledge about the subject. Most of the data are from developed countries and about the role of the social networks as a reference element when choosing a physician to be consulted.

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