Being better clinicians: An acronym to excellence

Abstract

Out of an exhaustive review of the literature on the essential attributes of exemplary clinicians, five main characteristics were derived. Summarized by a useful acronym-SOAPS, these attributes include maintaining a Systematic method; employing Observation and listening; Accessing databases; emphasizing a Personal empathic attitude and Sharing information and decisions with the patient and family. Universally lauded as these concepts are, the evidence demonstrates that they are often neglected, with a negative impact on the quality of care and patient outcomes. The article focuses on using the SOAPS acronym as a mental checklist in teaching sessions and patient encounters to improve adherence to these key concepts. © The Author 2013. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Association of Physicians. All rights reserved.