The Inner Consultation

Crucial to the satisfaction of general practice is the consultation, allowing the patient’s unadulterated narrative to be heard, guiding the clinician to formulate hypotheses, and embellishing the symbiotic doctor-patient relationship. The doctor must listen but also must examine, investigate, refer, and above all document, to differentiate the self limiting white noise from the pernicious red flag—and all this while acting without pressure from time, patient, or prejudice.

I was lent The Inner Consultation during my foundation year 2 placement in general practice and found it a revelation; it imparted order to consultations …