Methods: A total of 3627 participants were analyzed. The outcome variable was trust in clinical trial information (healthcare providers vs. family/friends/government agencies). Weighted logistic regression and Cronbach’s Alpha were used to measure the association and internal consistency between interaction items. Adjusted Model 1 includes all seven patient-physician interaction items, and Model 2 includes the patient-physician interactions index.

Results: About 73% of participants expressed trust in clinical information from healthcare providers. In the adjusted model 1, patients who were given a chance to ask all related health questions, receive attention to feelings and emotions and understand the next steps to care for health had 3.88 (95% CI:1.26-11.96), 3.12 (95% CI:1.01-9.67) and 5.05 (95% CI:1.01-25.33) times higher odds of trust in healthcare providers. In the adjusted model 2, patient-physician interaction index and cancer treatment options were 4.60 (95% CI:1.87-11.32) and 17.98 (95% CI:1.78-185.41) times higher trust in clinical trial information from providers, respectively. Compared to household income below $50,000, those living above poverty ≥ $50,000 had 4.14 (95% CI:1.23-2.38) higher adjusted odds of trust in healthcare providers.

Conclusion: Clinical trials centered on cancer therapy as a treatment modality should prioritize communication strategies that foster trust in information provided by healthcare professionals and other government health agencies.