AMA Survey on Trust in Health Information

Detected March 13th, 2026

Summary

A recent survey highlights that Americans continue to trust physicians and medical organizations, like the AMA, for health information, despite declining confidence in federal health agencies. The AMA emphasizes its commitment to providing accurate, evidence-based guidance to patients.

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What changed

This notice from the American Medical Association (AMA) highlights findings from an Annenberg Public Policy Center survey indicating that physicians and medical organizations remain highly trusted sources of health information. The survey found approximately 73% of Americans have confidence in the AMA, a figure that stands in contrast to declining public trust in federal health agencies. The AMA's CEO, John Whyte, MD, MPH, stated that trust is fundamental to healthcare and that the AMA is dedicated to helping patients discern accurate information amidst a challenging information environment.

For compliance officers, this document serves as an informational update on public perception regarding health information sources. It underscores the importance of maintaining clear, evidence-based communication strategies for healthcare providers and related entities. While no direct compliance actions are mandated, the findings reinforce the need for organizations to prioritize transparency and scientific accuracy in their public health messaging to align with patient expectations and rebuild trust.

Source document (simplified)

CHICAGO — New survey findings from the Annenberg Public Policy Center highlight a widening trust gap in the nation’s health information landscape and underscore the importance of trusted medical voices grounded in science.

The survey found that physicians and medical organizations remain among the most trusted sources of public health information, with about 73% of Americans expressing confidence in the American Medical Association (AMA). The findings come at a time when confidence in federal health agencies has unfortunately declined, even as Americans continue to rely heavily on physicians and medical experts for credible, evidence-based information about health and disease prevention.

“Trust is the foundation of effective health care and public health,” said AMA CEO John Whyte, MD, MPH. “In a challenging information environment, patients need clear, evidence-based guidance they can rely on. Physicians and medical organizations have a responsibility to help rebuild trust by communicating what the science shows and putting patients’ health first. Health information is everywhere today, but its accuracy is harder than ever to determine. The AMA is dedicated to helping patients cut through the clutter and elevate the valid over the viral. Accurate, trustworthy information saves lives.”

The AMA continues to advocate for science-driven health policy and clear communication grounded in the best available evidence to support patients and physicians. The AMA recognizes the need for a strong public health system that can foster and sustain a healthier future for everyone across our nation.

Media Contact

Kelly Jakubek

Phone: (312) 464-4443

[email protected]

About the American Medical Association

The American Medical Association is the physicians’ powerful ally in patient care. As the only medical association that convenes 190+ state and specialty medical societies and other critical stakeholders, the AMA represents physicians with a unified voice to all key players in health care. The AMA leverages its strength by removing the obstacles that interfere with patient care, leading the charge to prevent chronic disease and confront public health crises and, driving the future of medicine to tackle the biggest challenges in health care.

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