Take, for example, a patient who has just been diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR). And having some other comorbidities like hypertension, acid reflux, prediabetes (or diabetes), and heart failure.

In this situation, the consultation is very complex, and it is not realistic to think it can be done in a 10-15-20-minute consultation.

I advise the patient to concentrate on my explanations and not worry that they will not remember the treatment and investigations they should have to treat and monitor the medical condition. I assure them that at the end of the consultation, I will either email the PGP-MP to the patient or print it and give it to the patient to take with them.

For this disease, I created a template that I will alter according to each case.

There is no need to mention that using this strategy benefits:

- I cover the patient’s medical needs

- I increase the efficacy of consultation. It is more likely that the patient will have a clearer view of their treatment, investigations, and condition monitoring. This will increase their compliance and reduce misunderstandings and misconceptions about the treatment.

- It reduces the time pressure during the consultation. In practice, using the preset template reduces the time it takes me to write and document my consultation.

Example of PGP-MP for PMR:

Based on your symptoms, the examination findings, and blood test results, you have been diagnosed with a condition called Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR).
You can find useful information about this disease at this address:
https://patient.info/bones-joints-muscles/polymyalgia-rheumatica-leaflet
The treatment for this disease takes a long time, usually 1-2 years
Please do not stop any of your current medications
Based on your symptoms, the examination findings, and blood test results, you have been diagnosed with a condition called Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR).
You can find useful information about this disease at this address:
https://patient.info/bones-joints-muscles/polymyalgia-rheumatica-leaflet
The treatment for this disease takes a long time, usually 1-2 years
Summary Management Plan (You will find below detailed recommendations/instructions on how to take medication)
1. Start PREDNISOLONE.
2. Start ALENDRONIC ACID
3. Start tablets of VITAMIN D and CALCIUM
4. Start LANSOPRAZOLE
5. Eat as little salt as possible
6. Check your blood pressure every 6 months
7. Have a blood test every 6 months to check if you develop diabetes
8. Have regular consultations for review
9. What you should do when you feel pain as you felt before you started the treatment with PREDNISOLONE
 

In this situation, the PGP-MP serves as an effective and efficient means of communication with the patient.

If you would like to view the PGP-MP generated using the preset templates, please press this button.

Who Benefits:

- The Patient

• The GP has the opportunity to explain each point of the plan and the rationale behind each recommendation.
• The patient will not feel rushed and will appreciate that the plan is tailored to their individual needs.
• The patient's family will be informed of the consultation outcome, enabling them to assist the patient in following the agreed actions.

- The GP

• The GP will not feel pressured to document the plan during the consultation, as the PGP-MP becomes an integral part of the consultation notes.
•  The PGP-MP can also serve as a medico-legal document in this context.

- Other Healthcare Professionals

• Any healthcare professional who reviews the consultation will have a clear understanding of what the patient agreed to with the GP.