ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with both generic and specific approaches to communication and counselling situations clinician may encounter in the exam. Since the introduction of the clinical oral structured clinical examination (OSCE) to Membership of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (MRCOG) Part 3 examination with its use of professional role-players, it is fair to say that the 'communication and counselling' stations have instilled fear and loathing in equal measure in the prospective part 3 candidate. Breaking bad news is difficult, and as a clinician clinician have to develop skills to connect and communicate effectively with clinician's patients. Provision of effective and compassionate care requires a good doctor—patient relationship. Such a relationship relies greatly on effective communication. The ability to assess communication skills is the primary advantage an OSCE offers compared to the written MRCOG exam. Effective communication has several components; many of us do most of these naturally.
