Rebuilding Trust in Medicine: How Patients and Physicians Can Work Together
Catalyzing positive change so patient-physician relationships can flourish
March 2025
Dear Medicine Forward Community,
Trust is the foundation of effective healthcare, yet it has been eroded by administrative burdens, rushed appointments, and a system that prioritizes efficiency over meaningful connection. Rebuilding trust requires a renewed focus on patient-centered care—where communication, transparency, and sufficient time for each patient foster stronger relationships.
When physicians have the autonomy to prioritize meaningful human interactions, and patients feel truly heard and respected, trust is strengthened. Reducing bureaucratic obstacles, supporting physician well-being, and advocating for systemic changes that allow for deeper patient engagement will help rebuild the trust that is essential for high-quality care.
At Medicine Forward, we believe that human connection must come before the business of medicine. A healthcare system rooted in trust leads to better care, stronger relationships, and improved outcomes for all.
Supporting the Nevada Physician Wellness Coalition
Physician well-being is a critical issue that impacts not just doctors but the patients they serve. The Nevada Physician Wellness Coalition (NPWC) is dedicated to supporting physicians through confidential peer support, wellness programs, and advocacy efforts that address burnout and mental health.
Established in 2018, the mission of the Nevada Physician Wellness Coalition is to address the devastation and negative community impact of physician burnout and suicide. The current landscape of resiliency treatment and prevention for the physician population is a work in progress. For this reason, following two physicians who died by suicide in 2018 in Northern Nevada, a group of physicians formed this independent and autonomous 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to physician well-being.
Based on input from physicians, medical staff, and industry-research, the NPWC has developed and offers evidence-based well-being programs and resources across the spectrum of acuity statewide to address the highly sensitive nature of physician burnout and associated stigma. Providing multiple group programs per month as well as access to a confidential Physician Resource Line staffed by psychologists who specialize in physician stress, the NPWC operates independent of regulatory and licensure bodies, medical societies, as well as where a physician may be employed. We serve Nevada physicians, medical students, and their families across all of Nevada– regardless of place of employment or employment status. To find out more about us and access our free resources, please visit: www.nevadaphysicianwellnesscoalition.com
Empowering Physicians to Lead and Thrive: Dr. Miguel Villagra & A Doctor’s Journey
We are proud to recognize Dr. Miguel Villagra as the sponsor of this month’s newsletter. As a physician coach and founder of A Doctor’s Journey, Dr. Villagra is dedicated to empowering doctors to overcome burnout, build fulfilling careers, and become leaders in healthcare innovation. Through personalized coaching, Positive Intelligence (PQ) training, and digital health education, he helps physicians rediscover their passion and resilience in an evolving healthcare landscape.
His mission aligns closely with Medicine Forward’s commitment to physician well-being and strengthening patient-physician relationships. Dr. Villagra’s work focuses on equipping physicians with the tools they need to navigate career transitions, cultivate resilience, and develop leadership skills in an evolving healthcare landscape. His PQ training empowers doctors to shift their mindset, overcome burnout, and build sustainable, fulfilling careers beyond traditional clinical roles. To learn more about his work, explore his coaching programs, resources, and insights on physician leadership and well-being at A Doctor’s Journey.
Honoring Physicians on Doctors Day
As Doctors Day approaches on March 30th, we take a moment to recognize the immense dedication and impact of physicians in our lives. Beyond treating physical ailments, doctors provide emotional support and compassionate care, often in the most challenging circumstances. Yet, despite their tireless efforts, many feel undervalued or overlooked.
This year, we encourage you to show appreciation to the doctors in your life—a simple, heartfelt thank-you note can make a profound difference. A handwritten message not only boosts morale but also helps combat burnout, fostering a deeper sense of connection within the healthcare community.
Inspired by initiatives like Cards2Warriors, which has sent uplifting messages to patients and caregivers, and strongly recommended by our Community Ambassador Kim Downey, we support expanding this effort to include doctors. A small act of gratitude can go a long way in ensuring that those who dedicate their lives to care feel valued and supported.
Take a moment this Doctors Day to write a note of thanks to a physician who has made a difference in your life. Together, we can build a culture of kindness and appreciation in healthcare—one message at a time.
Revisiting Our Pilot Study: Time and Presence in Healthcare
This study explores how the length of consultations influences trust, satisfaction, and health outcomes for both patients and physicians. Your participation will help refine our methods and contribute to meaningful improvements in patient care.
What’s Involved?
A one-on-one interview (45-60 minutes)
Share your personal experiences and perspectives
Flexible scheduling at your convenience
Your feedback will be crucial in shaping a study that could lead to better healthcare experiences and outcomes for everyone. If you’re a patient or physician and would like to help, please click here.
Become a Medicine Forward Member
Our $5 membership is symbolic of just how different we are. It gives you unlimited access to our Mighty Network of passionate change agents and provides essential resources to support advocacy efforts.
This includes:
✅ Growing and supporting our community
✅ Hosting events and discussions
✅ Creating impactful content
✅ Fundraising for meaningful change
Real transformation takes effort from patients, physicians, and communities alike. Join us and be part of the change we want to see in healthcare.
Subscribe and Share
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Thank you,
Gabe Charbonneau, MD, Co-founder, Medicine Forward
Todd Otten, MD, Lead Catalyst / Board Chair, Ripple of Change
Lisa Scardina, Strategy and Implementation, PS&D Recruitment
Jeff Cohn, MD, Mental Fitness & Leadership Coaching Officer, Care to Change Coaching
Kim Downey, Community Ambassador, Stand Up for Doctors
Eva Lana Minkoff, Director of Healthcare Relationship Initiatives, Bold Being
MaryAnn Wilber, MD, MPH, MHS, Public Health Strategist, The Doctor Is No Longer In Emee Vida Estacio, PhD, CPsychol, SFHEA, Psychologist and Author, “Fear Is Not My Enemy”
Nimra Savanghan, Digital Content and Collaboration
Ziv Amsili, Contributor
Medicine Forward is always looking to catalyze positive change. If you have a effort, topic that you link would be interested, please reach out.