The 5 minute conversation is designed to fit into a consultation addressing a range of aspects of patient management. These simple steps can help build readiness to change and help start a plan based on the individual’s preferences.
Find below some words that we find helpful to achieve a brief, person-centred 5 minute active conversation. This template is to help guide you – there are no rights or wrongs. Try using these words in your own consultations and see how they work for you.
| ENGAGE | Open the conversation | “Would you be happy to spend 4-5 minutes talking about something that can make a big difference to your future health and wellbeing?” |
| Assess impact of the condition | How has your condition affected your physical activity levels and the things you enjoy? | |
| EXPLORE | Find out what they already know | “What do you know about the benefits of physical activity in people with your condition?” |
| Share benefits | Can I share some other things people find beneficial to see what you make of them | |
| Encourage reflection | “What do you make of what I have just said?” | |
| Make it personal | “What would be the top 2-3 reasons for you personally becoming more active, if you decided to?” | |
| DECIDE | Summarise without adding anything new | “Can I summarise what I think you have said?” |
| Ask the key question | ‘So, what do you think you will do?’ | |
| Agree a plan | “Can I share with you some things people find helpful when making a plan?” | |
| Arrange follow up | “How would you feel about coming back another time to build on the thoughts and ideas you’ve shared with me today?” | |
| Signpost support organisations | “There are some great, free resources available here and on other websites by people who understand what it’s like living with your condition if you’d be interested to have a look” |