The Doctor’s Communication Handbook

Communication skills are an important tool for any modern doctor, and it could be argued that for today’s General Practitioner they are an essential tool for successful medical practice. Peter Tate, a convener of examiners for the RCGP, has written what he calls a handbook on this subject, though it is, in fact, an authoritative guide to successful consultations through the appropriate use of communication skills. Like others, he asserts that communication skills, which were initially thought to be inherent, are in fact skills which can be taught in the same way that any other practical skill can be taught. He emphasises the fact that, like other skills, the techniques can (and should) be honed by regular rehearsal, and it is undoubtedly true that the more one does it the better one gets at it.

Clearly communication skills are a huge area to cover in a relatively small and easily readable book (less than two hundred pages) like this, but the author emphasises time and time again what he believes to be the main skills to be taught. These are, firstly, how to elicit the patient’s ideas, concerns and expectations, secondly, how to develop a shared understanding with the patient and, thirdly, and I believe most importantly, how to involve the patient in shared decision making.

It is plain to see that this superb book is written by someone who passionately believes that the successful application of these communication skills will lead to greater patient satisfaction and thus lead to greater doctor satisfaction too. This is the fourth edition of a book that was originally published in 1994. However, although many of the chapter names are similar, the content has been updated for the many new challenges that face the modern General Practitioner, like our politicians’ apparent obsession with health promotion almost to exclusion of the patient’s agenda.

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I have little doubt that I will refer to it again and again. I particularly enjoyed the chapter on special situations, such as how to break bad news and some strategies to deal with somatising patients. However it seems wrong to pick out parts from a book that is so crammed full of useful information, concepts and tips. Every doctor should read this book before he or she is let loose on unsuspecting patients, who have placed their trust in them! No excuses!

Publisher:	Radcliffe Medical Press
	4th Edition
	ISBN: 1 85775 998 2

Price:	£21.95

Reviewer:	Dr Adrian Boonin