When physicians communicate with patients, being honest is an important way to foster trust and show respect for the patient. Patients place a great deal of trust in their physician, and may feel that trust is misplaced if they discover or perceive lack of honesty and candor by the physician.

Why is it important to be honest as a doctor?

One of the most important factors in the physician / patient relationship is honesty. Doctors expect their patients to be truthful so they can provide appropriate care, but a 2018 study has revealed that as many as 80% of all patients lie or withhold information from their providers.

Should doctors be always honest with their patients?

While it's hard to quantify the significance of hope to the ill, most healthcare professionals would say it's important for patients to maintain optimism and faith in their potential for recovery. “Honesty is almost always the best policy,” says Stephen Hanson, a California-based physician assistant.