The written psychiatric consultation is the distillation, the official
permanent record, and the one universal element of the consultation
process. Both the document and process present a good and growing
opportunity for service and teaching. The authors offer a conceptual and
practical scheme to help potential consultants make decisions about the
content, style, and wording of their written communications. Each of the
components of the consultation document, including headings, openings,
history, examination, and formulations, is considered in terms of its
effects on the liaison with the consultee and the care of the patient.
Abstract Teaser