aamc.org does not support this web browser.

Authentic partnerships are built on trust.

Diverse group of people waiting in health clinic

A long and ongoing history of mistreatment and abuse has fostered logical mistrust and distrust of the health care system and other institutions across diverse communities. Racism, classism, ableism, and other systems of oppression perpetuated by societal systems are not soon forgotten by the people they affect. Mis- and disinformation also play key roles. It’s up to those institutions to work to demonstrate they are worthy of their communities’ trust. Trust is the foundation of the community-driven, multisector partnerships necessary to create lasting health equity for all.

Librarian helping students in school library

Start Here: The Principles of Trustworthiness Toolkit

The Principles of Trustworthiness Toolkit is the center’s foundational ready-to-use framework and tools for organizations working to become trustworthy partners to their communities through humility, authenticity, intersectionality, and long-term commitment.

Access the Toolkit
Four people are meeting each other for the first time outdoors on a sunny day. A Black man and a Latino man shake hands in the center.

Principles of Trustworthiness Toolkit Pilot Project

Teams of multisector, community partnerships will formally use and evaluate the Principles of Trustworthiness Toolkit for one year. 

Learn More
Advancing Health Equity: A Guide to Language, Narrative and Concepts

Advancing Health Equity: A Guide to Language, Narrative and Concepts

Produced in partnership with the American Medical Association, this resource guides institutions toward a deeper understanding of equity-focused, person-first language and narratives and why these choices matter on the road to trustworthiness.

Access the Guide
Businessman shaking hands with colleague after meeting in office

Building Trust and Confidence Through Partnerships Grant Program

This CDC-funded grant program is promoting stronger cross-sector collaboration between academic medicine, public health departments, social services agencies, and community-based organizations to increase trust and acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines as well as other routine vaccines, especially for children and adolescents.

Meet the Grantees
Smiling friends posing for a photo while standing outside

The State of Trustworthiness

New polling reveals surprising differences in the public's trust in institutions by age, race, and income. What does it mean for organizations working towards becoming trustworthy partners to their communities?

Read the Brief