Communication Skills in General Practice

Subject GENP90011 (2010)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2010.

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 9 (Graduate/Postgraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2010:

Semester 2, Parkville - Taught online/distance.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable

Semester 2, Parkville - Taught on campus.
Pre-teaching Period Start not applicable
Teaching Period not applicable
Assessment Period End not applicable
Last date to Self-Enrol not applicable
Census Date not applicable
Last date to Withdraw without fail not applicable

Distance

Timetable can be viewed here. For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: 8-hour workshop.
Total Time Commitment: 120 hours
Prerequisites: Nil
Corequisites: .
Recommended Background Knowledge: .
Non Allowed Subjects: .
Core Participation Requirements:

Students are required to have access to a computer with e-mail application and a web browser. Technical support is not available from the University of Melbourne in setting up such a system.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry. The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website : http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Coordinator

Assoc Prof Kelsey Hegarty

Contact

Bernie Cooper, cooperb@unimelb.edu.au
Subject Overview:

Communicating effectively with patients is an integral part of clinical practice. It is well understood that there are specific aspects to communication that must be addressed to achieve a successful consultation. This subject will utilise a patient centred approach to the primary care consultation and will further develop active listening skills as well as addressing specific issues that may arise in the consultation and work setting, for example, breaking bad news, responding to disclosure of sensitive matters, negotiating with team members.

Objectives:

At the completion of this subject students should be able to:

  • explain the theoretical principles of effective communication and consulting skills including the impact of gender
  • demonstrate skills in reflective learning and reflective practice
  • demonstrate an advanced level of communication and consulting skills that enhance satisfaction and clinical outcomes for patients
  • engender a patient-centred approach and shared understanding with patients
  • understand the role of effective communication skills in the prevention of medico-legal issues
Assessment:
  • Workshop attendance 8 hours mid semester (pass/fail hurdle requirement)
  • 20 minute communication skills assessment due end of semester (40%)
  • Participation in online reflective tasks due end of semester (pass/fail hurdle requirement)
  • Two 20 minute patient interviews due end of semester (60%)

Students must achieve a cumulative mark of at least 50% and a pass in the hurdle requirements in order to pass the subject.

Prescribed Texts: .
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

At the completion of this subject, students should be able to demonstrate:

  • further enhanced oral and written skills
  • further enhanced clinical skills
  • enhanced skills in effective teamwork
Related Course(s): Postgraduate Diploma in Primary Care Nursing

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