For the GPs who might sometimes focus more on their computers than the patient in front of them, researchers have identified five key practices to foster ‘presence’ in a consult.

Modern medicine has improved care, but time constraints, “intrusive” electronic health records and administrative demands impede the human connection central to clinical care and contribute to doctor burnout, the University of Stanford researchers write in a JAMA report.

But simple practices that foster presence or a connection with patients, especially at the beginning of a consultation, can build trust and respect.

They reviewed dozens of scientific papers on the topic, narrowing the field to 31 practices that were then rated by a panel of 14 researchers, clinicians, patients, carers and health-system leaders for their potential effect on patient and doctor experience and the feasibility of implementation.