Expectations and experience of people who consult in a training practice

Abstract

All the patients (348) seen in one week in a training practice in Exeter were asked to complete a pair of questionnaires, one before and one after consulting, about the content of that consultation. Seventy-one per cent responded. Ninety-two per cent of respondents expected to be told what was wrong with them, although 72 per cent had a “pretty good idea” of what was wrong beforehand. In the event, 76 per cent felt they had actually been told what was wrong. Sixty-one per cent sought advice or suggestions for self-help. Fifty-four per cent expected to receive, and 57 per cent received a prescription, including 14 per cent who had not expected one. Ninety-three per cent were satisfied with what took place.

The nine patients who were dissatisfied had expectations which differed little from those of the rest, but their experience in the consultation differed significantly, particularly in relation to discussion, comprehension and the exchange of information. It is concluded that the need for explanatory information greatly exceeded the need for medication in this sample of people.

Some special problems and differences were identified among people who consulted the trainee: in particular, their consultations were less likely to be relaxed and they expected to be, and were, followed up less often than those who saw a principal.