I am sorry to do this but I cannot find evidence about this.
For the last 30 years in UK general practice the patient has sat to one side of the desk during a consultation, rather than behind the desk opposite the doctor. This means they can see the computer, the doctor can touch the patient, body language can be more easily seen and there is no physical barrier between patient and doctor.
The reason for the change 30 years ago was to improve communication but where is the evidence?
I have been asked by a new teaching unit who have the patient the other side of the desk, for evidence of improved communication. I have not found any evidence despite using quite a lot of non medical databases.
Can anyone help?
Thanks
Martin
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