How to 'Google' in front of the patient: A practical approach to information seeking during the consultation

The pace of new medical evidence is rapidly increasing. A modern doctor needs skills to access high-quality and up-to-date information to provide healthcare. Information seeking is often done at the point of care due to time constraints and because most consultations are conducted with the doctor and patient in the same space. There are benefits to accessing information during the consultation, and navigating this successfully requires skill.

Based on interviews with patients, this article aims to provide an updated practical approach for clinicians accessing reputable and reliable information with patients during consultations.

Accessing information at the point of care is now an important clinical skill for clinicians; however, patients view this as a communication skill. Successful access and use of information can build trust through communication, transparency and actively involving the patient.