[Changing patients' health behavior--consultation and physician-patient relationship]

Studies indicate that doctors' advice concerning changes in patients' lifestyle meet with relatively little success. The article gives a summary of empirical studies on patient compliance in relation to the doctor's behaviour and attitudes; the quality of the patient-doctor relationship; and the content and form of the doctor's message. A patient-oriented style of communication; an ability to explore and discuss patients' expectations and behaviour; a warm and friendly approach; and an ability to gain the trust of the patient, are attributes that have been found to be effective in influencing patients' behaviour. The content of the information should be limited and specific, and the delivery should be structured. Perhaps the most important factor is a shift in power and control from the doctor to the patient when encouraging changes in health-related behaviour.