Publications [#301115] of Kathryn Whetten

We've launched a new site so please go to People & Research for current information on our faculty and staff.

Journal Articles

  1. Whetten, K; Leserman, J; Whetten, R; Ostermann, J; Thielman, N; Swartz, M; Stangl, D. "Exploring Trust as a Barrier to Health Service Use." American Journal of Public Health 96.4 (2006): 716-721.
    (last updated on 2026/01/19)

    Abstract:
    Objective: This study examines the association between trust of health care providers and government with health services utilization and outcomes. Methods: Associations were evaluated in a sample of 611 HIV-positive individuals from the Deep South. Interviews included an attitudinal assessment to measure beliefs concerning who created AIDS and why, whether information is being withheld about the disease and whether the respondents trust their care providers. Results: Trust in care providers was associated with: 3 or more HIV-related outpatient clinic visits over 9 months; fewer emergency room visits; taking antiretroviral medications; and improved reported physical health and mental health. Trusting the government was associated with: fewer emergency room visits; greater mental health and physical health. More than one-quarter of the respondents believed that the government created AIDS to kill minorities and more than half believed that a lot of information about AIDS is being withheld from the public. One in ten did not trust their provider to give them the best care possible. Conclusions: This study indicates that distrust may be a barrier to health services utilization and therefore to optimal health. The study also demonstrates that distrust is not isolated in minority communities, but also exists among non-minorities and equally interferes with use of services and health outcomes.

Kathryn Whetten

x