Communication between practitioner and patient is essential for successful outcomes. Addressing the barriers that exist and practising a few simple techniques can greatly enhance the success of this communication without increasing the time burden leading to happier patients and increased job satisfaction for practitioners.

This article will review the strengths and weaknesses of various consultation models, and detail the barriers to communication present at different stages of the patient consultation. Alternative strategies and approaches to overcoming these communication barriers will also be discussed. 

This content is worth 1 CPD point and you can undertake an optional discussion to make this CPD interactive.