What is a 'good' consultation?
The project hopes to identify important parts of the consultation, which could be used to assess and improve small animal consults.
How do we define and measure a 'good' consultation? A new PhD project by the University of Nottingham and marketing company Onswitch, hopes to find an answer to this question.
The team will collect data from clients, employers and veterinary surgeons, in order to identify key parts of small animal consultations that can be used to assess and improve them.
A series of video recorded consultations will also be used, followed by direct observation of consultations. This will test the feasibility of using certain measures to assess a successful consult.
In the final stage of the project a set of domains will be developed to provide learning outcomes for the 'core consultation' day one skills for veterinary graduates.
To apply for the study, visit http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/how-to-apply/apply-online.aspx and include a CV and covering letter. Early application is strongly recommended.
For more information on eligibility to apply and receive funding, please visit: http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/vet/prospectivestudents/postgraduate/studentships.aspx#goodconsultation
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
