Summary Some of the best-known consultation models derived from general practice are briefly described and discussed in terms of their relevance for nurse and pharmacist prescribers. The communication skills needed by the nurse prescriber are also considered, along with an introduction to the concept of the patient's health belief system. Some of the literature that compares nurse and GP consultations is also looked at, as is the concept of diagnosis by nurses. Concordance with medication and consultations with pharmacists are also mentioned.