1 Demonstrate
understanding of the context in which the consultation
happens.
With
patients this
means:
Recognising that patients are diverse: that their
behaviour and attitudes vary, for example, by age, gender,
ethnicity, social background and as individuals
Responding flexibly to the needs and expectations
of different individuals
Understanding the process by which patients decide
to consult, and how this can affect consulting
outcomes
Recognising the GP’s roles and
responsibilities towards the patient
Negotiating a shared understanding of the problem
and its management with the patient, so that he or she is empowered
to look after his or her own health
Demonstrating commitment to health promotion,
while recognising the potential tension between this role and the
patient’s own agenda
Managing the potential conflicts between personal
health needs, evidence-based practice and public health
responsibilities.
With
the patient’s
relatives, friends and supporters this
means:
Recognising that episodes of illness may affect
more than merely the patient
Understanding the patient’s right to
confidentiality
Negotiating whether and how relatives and others
might be involved.
With
other professional
colleagues this
means:
Working successfully as a member of the primary
care team
Working successfully with colleagues in secondary
care and elsewhere
Working successfully with a range of other
professionals such as Social Services
In all cases, recognising that ‘working
successfully’ involves:
understanding the role of
professional colleagues, and where their expertise
lies
drawing on this expertise as
appropriate
treating colleagues with
consideration and respect
understanding
interprofessional boundaries with regard to clinical responsibility
and confidentiality.
1. The consultation
