The New Consultation. Developing Doctor Patient Communication

This book is an essential aid for all doctors to increase the effectiveness of consultations and make them more patient-centred. It covers the theoretical basics as well as practical help. Consultation is the 'central act of medicine': the meeting between patient and doctor. The first part of the book takes the reader from the context of doctors' social and professional consultations to the intimacy of the surgery and then delves deeper into the consultation. The reader is invited to share the individual points of view of the doctor and the patient and to reflect on what will lead to a positive outcome. The final chapter of the first part collates all these factors and provides a coherent, evidence-based description of the processes needed for a successful patient, doctor and public consultation. The second part of the book introduces the reader to the practical aspects of learning and teaching effective consultation. Recognising that many doctors organise self-study, the authors have included a chapter that enables individuals to develop their own consultation technique. The final chapter discusses the difficulties that many doctors still encounter in delivering patient-centred treatment.