How to make consultations work

The consultation process exists to improve patient care in an era of medical complexities, but breakdowns in the process are common because of poor communication and inadequate physician education on the subject. The referring physician and the consultant both need to assume important responsibilities if quality patient care is to be ensured. The referring physician has to establish the reasons for and urgency of the consultation, communicate them to the consultant, and supply appropriate clinical information. The consultant has to determine the questions being asked, evaluate the patient, and communicate the findings and recommendations back to the referring physician. Whenever possible, the patient should be included in the decision-making process.