Table 2. Evaluation of consultation skills
NumberConsultation skillaNot done,n (%)Partially done,n (%)Fully done,n (%)
1Makes appropriate greeting or introduction, and demonstrates interest and respect (n = 23)12 (52.2)5 (21.7)6 (26.1)
2Identifies and confirms the patient’s problem list or issues (n = 23)9 (39.1)12 (52.2)2 (8.7)
3Encourages patient’s contribution or story (n = 23)1 (4.3)12 (52.2)10 (43.5)
4Makes an attempt to understand the patient’s perspective (n = 23)9 (39.1)13 (56.5)1 (4.3)
5Thinks family, and obtains relevant family, social, and occupational information (n = 23)12 (52.2)8 (34.8)3 (13.0)
6Obtains sufficient information to ensure no serious condition is likely to be missed (n = 23)1 (4.3)3 (13.1)19 (82.6)
7Appears to make a clinically appropriate working diagnosis (n = 23)1 (4.3)2 (8.7)20 (87.0)
8There is a clear explanation of the diagnosis and management plan (n = 18)0 (0.0)2 (11.1)16 (88.9)
9Gives patient an opportunity to ask for other information and/or seeks to confirm patient’s understanding (n = 18)2 (11.2)8 (44.4)8 (44.4)
10The explanation takes account of and relates to the patient’s perspective (n = 20)13 (65.0)3 (15.0)4 (20.0)
11Involves the patient where appropriate in decision making (n = 23)3 (13.0)7 (30.4)13 (56.5)
12Chooses an appropriate management plan (n = 20)0 (0.0)1 (5.0)19 (95.0)
13Shows a commitment to coordination of care (n = 15)0 (0.0)1 (6.7)14 (93.3)
14Shows a commitment to continuity of care (n = 20)6 (30.0)1 (5.0)13 (65.0)
15Closes consultation successfully (n = 21)5 (23.8)5 (23.8)11 (52.4)
16Provides appropriate safety netting for the patient (n = 19)7 (36.8)5 (26.4)7 (36.8)
  • a n differs between skills, as not all skills were relevant in every consultation.