Doctor/Patient Relations

Doctor/patient view of illness

Tucket et al have shown that if there is a wide difference between the doctor and patient’s view of illness they are likely to fail to communicate vital information effectively.

There is also some evidence that a patient centred consultation technique on the part of the doctor, based on the mutuality approach, gives them the flexibility to vary their style and communicate more effectively than the more paternalistic, doctor centred, approach.

Each consultation is unique, though it takes place in a social context and is shaped by social forces and social understandings on the part of those taking part.

How the participants negotiate these may have a significant impact on the experience and outcomes of illness.