FSU study examines provider photographs and perceptions of medical trust
Florida State University researchers studied how clinic signs featuring provider photographs influenced trust perceptions among Black and Hispanic women.
What the record says
FSU’s October 21 report describes 343 responses from U.S. women ages 18–44. Participants viewed one of 12 randomly assigned clinic waiting-room images and rated the provider. The provider portraits used in the study were AI-generated. Photographs improved perceptions of providers’ commitment to patients. Among Black participants, shared racial or ethnic background was associated with more favorable fairness and communication ratings. Provider identity did not produce significant differences in overall trust; among Hispanic participants, it did not significantly affect trust ratings.
Source details and supporting locations.
Practical next step
Read the university’s study summary for its methods and findings.
Limits and what is not established
These are reported perceptions after viewing images, not evidence that the design improved clinical outcomes or proof that the findings apply to every patient population.
Sources checked October 22, 2026. Later notices may change instructions or arrangements.
Original sources
Florida State University: original information