Russians Grow More Trusting of Official Medicine and Doctors, NIZHFARM Finds
In a comprehensive survey conducted by NIZHFARM and reviewed by socialbites.ca, trends show a steady rise in confidence in formal medical institutions and licensed physicians among the Russian public. The study highlights a shift in whom people rely on most for health advice and treatment, marking a notable change in patient attitudes over recent years. The findings come as Russia navigates ongoing demographic and epidemiological changes and faces ongoing discussions about healthcare quality and access.
The survey places general practitioners at the forefront of trust among Russians. In health matters, 86% of respondents expressed confidence in their doctors, up six points from more than a year earlier. More than half of respondents, 55%, sought medical help for health concerns in the past six months, and 13% were diagnosed with a new chronic condition within the last year. These numbers point to active engagement with the healthcare system and a reliance on primary care as the frontline for medical guidance. The data suggest that people value continuity of care, preventive advice, and timely intervention, underscoring the central role of family physicians in Russia’s health landscape. The study is interpreted as an indicator that trust in everyday clinical encounters remains a key pillar for public health, even as specialist care and hospital services evolve.
In terms of trust by professional category, scientists ranked second with 47% of respondents expressing confidence, followed by pharmacists at 31%. Notably, trust in scientists rose by two percentage points versus 2023, while trust in pharmacists increased by eleven points. Analysts note that these shifts indicate healthcare workers across the spectrum bear greater responsibility to provide accurate information, demonstrate competence, and maintain patient safety. Oksana Pozdnyakova, chief executive of the NIZHFARM group of companies, emphasizes that such trust is earned through consistent, patient-centered care, transparent communication, and rigorous professional standards. The trend also highlights the impact of science communication and public health messaging in shaping perceptions of medical authority across the country.
Russian women have previously received guidance on reducing the risk of breast cancer, and current outreach continues to emphasize evidence-based practices for risk reduction. This includes awareness of family history, healthy lifestyle choices, participation in regular screening where available, and timely medical consultation for suspicious symptoms. The overall trajectory points to a more proactive public that seeks credible medical counsel and values preventive care. Experts suggest sustained investment in primary care, science communication, and accessible health services will be essential to maintaining and expanding trust in the health system. Attribution: NIZHFARM study; reviewed by socialbites.ca.