Can Primary Care Restore Patient Trust in the Health System?
TDT | Manama
Prof. Salman Rawaf Weighs In at Bahrain Conference
At the Bahrain International Conference on Family Medicine and Primary Healthcare, held at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain, global health expert Professor Salman Rawaf from the UK delivered a compelling address on the erosion of patient trust in healthcare systems and the pivotal role that primary care can play in restoring it.
Professor Rawaf emphasized that mistrust in healthcare professionals—particularly physicians—is a significant issue in many parts of the world, including the Middle East. 'Patients often feel unheard, misdiagnosed, or over-medicated,' he stated, adding, 'Tomorrow, any of us could be a patient. So, we must ask—are we training doctors that patients can trust?'
System In Crisis
Rawaf warned that many global healthcare systems are failing to meet the needs of their populations. "They are operating without sufficient foresight or consideration for consequences. This leads to diagnostic errors, poor communication, and fragmented care,' he said. He called out a global trend of system fragmentation, with care being siloed between hospitals, specialists, and primary care providers, ultimately leading to higher costs, lower quality, and reduced patient satisfaction.
He advocated for a more integrated health system—one that breaks down the walls between public and private sectors and fosters collaboration. He pointed out successful models in countries where primary care leads the healthcare system, acting as the gatekeeper for services and as the first point of contact for the majority of patients.
Rawaf explained that a shift from hospital-based models to community-centered care is essential. "We need to move from treating diseases to promoting wellness. That's what value-based care is all about—providing quality care while controlling costs," he said.
If healthcare systems continue down the current path, future generations will face severe difficulties accessing care, especially as costs of medications, salaries, and technology rise. Only by reimagining healthcare delivery—starting with strong, trusted primary care—can this be prevented.
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