It's good to talk

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Effective Patient Communication seeks to build on the practitioner's strengths and identify shortfalls. The course has been created in association with specialists in psychometric testing, and uses Hogan's Personality Inventory (HPI). It may not be the most familiar of names, but the test is widely used in the realm of human resources. HPI evaluates seven aspects of interpersonal behaviour that influence managerial or, in this instance, practitioner performance. The test is concerned with how a person is seen by others, such as with their distinctive interaction style or reputation. Dr Kamlesh Chauhan, head of TVCI, says this was an important factor when devising the course: 'We wanted a test which focused on the way people are viewed rather than how they think they are viewed. Understanding how you are perceived by patients allows the practitioner to start communicating more effectively.'