Value-based practice: introducing a skills-based approach to balanced cinical decision-making

Abstract

Whilst the importance of evidence-based practice is well recognised by most GPs, perhaps less well recognised is that there are two bases or feet’ on which sound clinical decision-making is based—the other being values-based practice (V-BP). This article does not attempt to be a comprehensive manual on the processes of V-BP. We aim to help you understand the rationale of V-BP and to demonstrate some of its processes which, as you will see, build on your existing clinical skills and knowledge. In view of the importance of clinical decision-making, it is unsurprising that the GP curriculum underlines the importance of values-based practice.