Patient factors Self-awareness and self-confidence Increasing healthcare and health-information requirements Vulnerability associated with ageing Increasing expectations of health care
GP factors
GP characteristics	GP communication skills
Patient-centred	Attentive listening
Caring	Provision of explanation
Holistic	Acknowledgement of the patient ‘as an equal’
Open and honest	Provision of choice
	Willing to discuss GP expertise
	Offering of expert opinion
	Willing to discuss uncertainties
System factors Optimal access to a GP Optimal consultation duration Opportunities to find a GP–patient ‘match’ Continuity of care with a ‘usual’ GP
Societal and cultural factors The status of the GP as perceived by society