METHODS

Design:

randomised controlled trial.

Allocation:

unconcealed.*

Blinding:

unblinded.*

Follow up period:

immediately after consultation.

Setting:

4 semirural training general practices in the southeast UK.

Patients:

110 patients presenting with self limiting conditions. Exclusion criteria: referral to hospital, prescription given for purposes other than symptom control, or spontaneous expression by the patient of a clear concern about his/her illness.

Intervention:

after a history and examination, 56 patients were allocated to written prompts to the GP to facilitate elicitation of patient concerns. Written prompts were “May I ask if you have any concerns about this [illness or …