(Information adapted by B. Gitzel from Stewart et al, "Patient-Centred Medicine - Transforming the Clinical Method.")

There are generally thought to be six components of the client-centred process.

1. Exploration of illness experience as well as the disease (ideas, feelings, expectations and effects on function.

2. Understanding of the whole person including the person's history and context, such as family and environment.

3. Identification of common ground regarding management

• co-diagnosis
• acknowledge challenges and priorities
• goals of treatment
• roles of patient and caregiver
• negotiation vs. prescription

4. Enhancement of the provider-patient relationship

• use of clear verbal communication and plain language
• listen actively
• respect decisions of client
• obtain client consent
• encourage self-responsibility and self-care
• provide written summary of instructions
• follow-up care

5. Realistic aims

• acknowledge limitation of time, resources and finances of client and agency
• collaborate with others
• describe options alternatives and adaptations

6. Incorporation of prevention and health promotion material.