Countering Misinformation in Science
Compounding the problem of mistrust and loneliness is misinformation. In the age of social media and the 24-hour news cycle, misinformation spreads rapidly, eroding trust in science and medicine faster than we can build it. For patients with rheumatic diseases, who often turn to the internet for answers, the abundance of often conflicting and inaccurate information can be overwhelming and harmful. As rheumatologists, we have both the responsibility and a great opportunity to counter misinformation with evidence-based, compassionate communication.
One of the first steps is recognizing the power dynamics at play. Patients often feel intimidated or dismissed when questioning medical advice, which leads them to seek validation from less reliable sources. By creating a safe space for questions and concerns, we can guide patients toward accurate information without judgment. It’s not enough to say, “Don’t ask Dr. Google.” We must actively provide resources that are accessible, trustworthy and tailored to their needs.
Education is another critical component. Whether it is through patient handouts, clinic websites, or public health campaigns, we can take an active role in shaping the narrative around rheumatologic diseases and treatments, as the ACR currently does. Social media, when used thoughtfully, can be a powerful tool for disseminating accurate information and engaging with patients in real-time. Such platforms as X (Twitter) and Instagram allow us to reach audiences far beyond our clinics, building a digital community grounded in trust.
Finally, countering misinformation requires collaboration. Volunteering with the ACR, as well as partnering with patient advocacy groups, public health agencies and others, amplifies our message and ensures consistency across channels. When patients hear the same accurate, evidence-based information from multiple sources, they are more likely to trust it. In this world increasingly saturated with noise, our collective voice as rheumatologists can serve as a beacon of clarity.
Can We Teach Trust Building in Rheumatology Fellowship?
If trust is so central to our work, then surely it must be a teachable skill. Yet until fairly recently, traditional medical education seemed to focus more on technical competencies than on the interpersonal dynamics that underpin trust. As educators, we have an obligation to ensure that the next generation of rheumatologists is not only clinically adept but also skilled in building and sustaining trust.
Teaching trust building begins with modeling it. Fellows learn not just from what we say, but from what we do—how we listen to patients, how we navigate difficult conversations and how we admit when we don’t have all the answers. Through everyday demonstrations of vulnerability and empathy, we show trainees that trust is not about projecting infallibility but about cultivating authenticity.
