·        Developing rapport to enable the patient to feel understood, valued and supported 

·        Reducing potential conflict between doctor and patient 

·        Encouraging an environment that maximises accurate and efficient initiation, information gathering and explanation and planning

 ·        Enabling supportive counselling as an end in itself.

 ·        Developing and maintaining a continuing relationship over time

 ·        Involving the patient so that he understands and is comfortable with the process of the consultation 

·        Increasing both the physician’s and the patients’ satisfaction with the consultation