This book has established itself as a key text for all doctors whatever their experience and wherever they practice and is of particular value to candidates sitting the Membership of the Royal College of General Practitioners (MRCGP) examination. The light-hearted conversational approach makes for enjoyable reading. All trainee doctors particularly those completing the Work Based Assessment (WBA) section of the MRCGP examination will find this text invaluable as will undergraduate medical students and postgraduate candidates for the new Clinical Skills Examination (CSE) in 2007 a future requirement for membership of the RCGP. Key reviews from previous editions: 'This book is readable friendly and informative guide. A great help.' EDUCATION FOR PRIMARY CARE 'If you have never read a book about doctor/patient communication - start with this one. The author provides tips for anyone taking the College exam. It will appeal to all general pracitioners being very readable and illustrated with narrative and cartoons. The book concludes with an excellent personalised reference list'. PRACTICAL DIABETES INTERNATIONAL 'The consultation is analysed in-depth in this remarkable easy-to-read volume' GP 'An uninhibited paean of good communicatioN.' EDUCATION FOR GENERAL PRACTICE 'Cheerfully illustrated and readable' BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL 'The text is full of wisdom' BRITISH JOURNAL OF GENERAL PRACTICE 'Easy-to-read and written with enthusiasm' MEDICAL MONITOR 'An excellent blend of theory and practice which should be read by every doctor' CLINICIAN IN MANAGEMENT 'A must for every doctor' FAMILY PRACTICE

Table of Contents

Some early truths to remember * How doctors talk to patients and why * Different types of patient * The patient's learning circle * The doctor's learning circle * What you need to achieve in a consultation * Ways of looking at the consultation * Ways of describing and evaluating consultations * The magic move? * Useful strategies and skills * Wider communication and ethical issues * Special situations and patients

Author Biography

Former Convenor, Panel of Examiners, Royal College of General Practitioners