EAU25: Building trust in the patient-doctor relationship

Trust is a cornerstone of effective healthcare, particularly in uro-oncology, where patients often navigate complex and emotionally charged decisions. At the 40th Annual EAU Congress on Saturday, 22 March 2025, from 10:00 to 10:30, the Patient Plaza session on Building Trust in the Patient-Doctor Relationship will explore the challenges and opportunities in fostering trust between patients and healthcare providers.

Session overview

The session will be moderated by Alex Filicevas, Executive Director of the World Bladder Cancer Patient Coalition (WBCPC), and will bring together patient advocates and medical professionals to discuss key factors influencing trust and practical ways to enhance patient-doctor communication.

Speakers and topics

• Laurent Gemenick (Spain, CANVES): Sharing personal experiences on the challenges of trust in healthcare and the impact of feeling dismissed.
• Dr Alison Birtle (United Kingdom): Highlighting the role of clear and empathetic communication in building trust and addressing concerns like medical gaslighting.
• Melanie Costin (Belgium, Fight Bladder Cancer): Exploring how shared decision-making empowers patients and strengthens trust in their treatment journey.
• Robert Greene (Netherlands): Discussing barriers to trust in uro-oncology, including time constraints and complex medical information, and strategies to improve engagement.

The session will conclude with an interactive discussion and Q&A, giving attendees the opportunity to engage with speakers and explore ways to improve trust in clinical settings.

Why attend this session?

Trust between patients and healthcare professionals plays a critical role in improving treatment adherence, satisfaction, and overall health outcomes. However, challenges such as poor communication and disparities in access to specialised care can undermine trust. This session at EAU25 will address these issues, offering practical insights into how patients and doctors can work together more effectively.

Join us at the EAU25 Patient Plaza on 22 March 2025 for an important discussion on strengthening trust in the patient-doctor relationship and improving patient-centred care.