FAQs

Is it necessary to have attended another consultation course before coming on this course?
Not at all. You do not need to have done any formal consultation training before coming on the day. That said, if you have attended the Effective Consultation Course and enjoyed it - then we highly recommend this day, which covers different material. It is a different and complementary programme.

What will the course cover?
Reflections on the practical challenges of behaviour change discussions with patients. Some research findings of relevance and an exploration of some of the ideas of Motivational Interviewing. Many short exercises trying out ideas for consultations with patients, in groups of three.

Will the course suit experienced GPs?
Very much so. The course was originally designed for the needs of this group.

I'm sitting the nMRCGP, should I come?
Almost certainly. Our course targets challenges that could appear in the CSA, so it can be good preparation for the CSA exam. We think it probably best attended before going to a more formal CSA course.

I've just been on maternity leave and think my brain has gone to jelly - will the course help me?
Yes. The challenge of returning to consulting with patients is cited by maternity-leave returners high up their list of anxieties. This course can certainly help.

I've just had a career break and I'm returning to general practice - how helpful will the course be for me?
In many ways this is similar to the situation after maternity leave, only with a longer break. The challenge of the clinical consultation is often a major issue in this situation - again, our course can help.

I'm a Registrar, should I come?
Yes. To pick up effective habits very early (even at ST1 level).This is particularly suitable if you have had good grounding in the "basics" e.g. as a medical student or FY2 doctor. And for all GPRs, this is suitable in ST3, ideally relatively early in the year.

Why should I come on this course as opposed to others?
We are not aware of anybody in the UK running regular training for GPs/primary care clinicians on this topic. The two course directors each have more than 20 year's experience of consultation teaching. The primary care focused design of the training and the way the days are run make for a practical, educational and enjoyable day.