1.The key concept of the doctor-patient relationship is the consultation. Sir James Spence states it is “The occasion when, in the intimacy of the consulting room, a person who is ill, or believes himself to be ill, seeks the advice of a doctor whom he trusts” . This consultation is a way to integrate the expertise of physician as well as the information provided by the patient. This consultation is the central moment for the doctor-patient relationship and sets the standard for the relationship as a whole.
2. A doctor’s approach must be holistic meaning, treating the patient as a whole:mentally, physically, mentally, and spiritually. Sir James explains again that “Before explanation and advice can be given to a patient, three diagnoses must be made: the diagnosis of the disease, of the concept or fears of the disease in the mind of the patient and of the patient’s capacity to understand the explanation” . This approach makes treatment more effective. It allows the patient to be treated for every aspect of their being, not just physical ailments. Therefore, a physician must take all the aspects of the patients health into account when providing treatment.
3. It is the responsibility of the physician to ensure that the consultation is given in an appropriate manner. This means that there is a mutual understanding by the doctor and the patient. This an opportunity for the physician to give the patient information for the patient to provide the doctor with the proper information to find a solution to their problem. Consultation analysis has developed as a part of training to show the importance of how this understanding by the two parties is needed during the consultation. Roger Neighbour describes the five stages of a consultation. These are that the physician first connects with the patient and develops rapport, then summarizes the reason for the patient being there and the expectations of the consultation. Next, the physician “hands over” or shares with the patient the treatment plan and then “safety nets” with the patient in case something unexpected happens. Finally, after the patient has left, the doctor “housekeeps” and to ensure they are ready for the next patient. Consultation is necessary to establish effective communication between the patient and doctor. This also allows the physician to gather information from the patient, educate the patient, and then develop an appropriate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
While I agree that a holistic approach takes into consideration the patients physical, mental, and spiritual health I think there is more to it than that. A holistic approach is key to any good doctor or physician in my opinion, especially in mental health fields. This approach helps a client feel more important and adds impact to the relationship making the client and their disease feel less like another number or statistic
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