Clinical encounters can provide a portal into understanding patient needs and person-centred care. Communication in interviewing is vital: communicating caring attitudes and actions in tandem. Some patients and populations require extra consideration in clinical settings. Many individuals with developmental disabilities present with cognitive, communication, motor or sensory differences that necessitate adaptations as we prepare and engage them in interviews. The following guidelines provide a summary of steps to “Communicate CARE when you INTERVIEW” a patient with a developmental disability. The principles and practices are broadly applicable and stand to benefit patients as well as clinicians in initial clinical encounters.

Inspiring 5-minute video of various people describing what compassion means to them in clinical relationships with health care providers.

Rural general practice involves teamwork and community. Experience the pure positive energy of getting to know people with special needs on a very human level… and the medical part flows‎.