How to Define Trust in Medical Consultation? A New Perspective With the Game Theory Approach

Abstract

This study aims to describe trust in medical consultation by using the game theory approach as a frame of reference. In the field of health, game theory seems to give interesting inputs in describing how trust is maintained and reinforced. A qualitative interview was conducted in Northern Italy at the University Hospital of Milan. Explorative results indicate that, in accordance with behavioural game theory approach, trustis associated with the frequency of interactions, continuity, and positive expectations. These findings highlight the potential value of game theory approach to explain trust and to design services, which in Italy and elsewhere are increasingly focused on enhancing access, often impersonal and no-continuative, rather than maintaining trust relationships based on continuity and frequency.