Patient education in family practice: the consensus reached by patients, doctors and experts.

Patient education is a central aspect of the GP's work, but it is not clear what type of information and guidance should be given to patients during consultations. As the existing literature did not offer any clear solutions to this problem, a consensus study was carried out using a panel of GPs, patients and experts/policymakers in the field of health education. After three cycles of questioning involving written questionnaires and written feedback, the panel reached a consensus on 35 priorities and recommendations concerning patient education carried out by the GP. A consensus method of this type is a valuable tool for setting standards when scientific findings are not available, and contrasting views play a role in the definition of what constitutes adequate performance.