CanadiEM - By Julia Heighton - July 21, 2020
"Key takeaways
Although each of these three approaches are slightly different, they all have a number of core similarities. These similarities provide us with hints as to which elements are especially critical when making a consultation request. Here are key takeaways:
- Prepare, prepare, prepare: before calling a consultant, make sure that you have a specific clinical question and a one liner prepared to “hook” the consultant. Additionally, ensure that you have all of the patient’s data in front of you, including old charts, lab and imaging results, the names of previous specialists, the dates of previous procedures/important investigations, and any other pertinent clinical information. This will allow you to present a concise clinical story to the consultant and be prepared to answer any questions the consultant may ask.
- Introductions: when starting the call, introduce yourself, your level of training, your service, and the patient. This will help build familiarity between you and the consultant.
- Open strong: following introductions, start with the one liner you prepared. Then pose your clear clinical question to the consultant before providing a concise story – this will help the consultant orient themselves and decide which information is most important as they listen to your story.
- Close the loop: before hanging up the phone, reiterate the plan to ensure that both parties are on the same page with respect to next steps. Closed loop communication is critical in ensuring that everyone leaves the conversation with the same expectations and understanding.
- Thank the consultant: being polite and providing thanks will go a long way towards improving collegiality and developing a good relationship with the consultant!"