Communication with the patient in General Practice

peer reviewedPatient communication plays an essential role in everyday clinical practice in General Practice (GP). It is possible to observe the communication skillstechniques in European countries, during the exchange programmes for GP trainees, which are organised by the Vasco da Gama Movement. The patientagenda often does not match the physician’s and sometimes is also neglected or misinterpreted. This may lead to low patient satisfaction and suboptimalclinical practice. Knowing how to approach the patient’s problems and fears, besides managing his/hers expectations, is of high importance in order toenhance satisfaction and quality of care. Furthermore, GP’s unique position should be considered, as he/she can discuss difficult and sensible topicswith his/her patients. The ICE (Ideas, Concerns and Expectations) model is an example of holistic and patient-centred approach, which is appropriatefor GPs, and explores the patient’s point of view concerning diagnosis and treatment. The importance of medical communication is also emphasised ineducation. For instance, a correct and consistent assessment of the communication skills in GP is possible with the use of the MAAS-Global scale