ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at therapeutic effects, which are not necessarily part of every consultation. Empathy, kindness, comfort and understanding would all seem to be intuitively therapeutic, benefiting both the patient's emotional state and the doctor–patient relationship. Doctors are much better placed to give reassurance with their detailed technical knowledge than any other therapist. The sort of relationship they have with their patients and their own therapeutic authority should be major contributors to their effectiveness in giving such reassurance. Modern research in general practice has supported the view that a patient-centred (as opposed to a disease-centred) approach, is healing. Patient-centred consultations have been associated with patients feeling understood and resolution of both their concerns and their symptoms. The attitude of the physician and his enthusiasm for any given treatment have been shown to have dramatic effects on the outcome of treatment. A doctor who is enthusiastic about his/her treatment will also ensure better compliance.
