The development of a "statement of policy regarding consultations"

The use of consultations in family medicine has often been misunderstood by both the persons seeking the consultations and the persons acting as consultants. A policy regarding the use of consultants has been written by the Department of Family Medicine and Practice at the Center for Health Sciences, University of Wisconsin. The statement includes a definition of "consultation," the reasons and goals for consultation, and the manner in which consultations are obtained. The policy includes the family practice residents, faculty, and patients in the decision-making process prior to all consultations.