The Best English Phrases for Doctors in the Clinic
A consultation follows a predictable path, so a small set of well-practised phrases can make you sound clear and confident at every stage.
Greeting and opening
Good morning, I'm Dr Ahmed. What brings you in today?
Please take a seat. How can I help?
Taking a history
When did the symptoms start?
Can you describe the pain? Is it sharp, dull or burning?
On a scale of 0 to 10, how bad is it?
Are you taking any medication at the moment?
Do you have any allergies?
During the examination
I'm going to listen to your chest now. Please breathe in deeply.
Let me know if this hurts.
You can get dressed now, thank you.
Explaining diagnosis and treatment
It looks like you have a mild chest infection.
I'd like to do a blood test to check a few things.
Take one tablet twice a day after meals for seven days.
If it doesn't improve in three days, please come back.
Checking understanding and closing
Do you have any questions?
Can you tell me how you'll take the medicine, just to make sure it's clear?
Take care, and get well soon.
Tips for sounding clear
Use simple words with patients; save technical terms for colleagues.
Pause between instructions, and repeat key numbers.
Practise these phrases aloud until they feel natural.
London College UK offers Medical English, with clinical role-plays and pronunciation practice. See also our guide to medical English for doctors.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use medical terms with patients?
Use plain language with patients and explain any term you need to use.
How can I sound more confident?
Practise the phrases aloud and in role-plays until they come automatically.
Is this useful for medical students?
Yes, especially before clinical training.
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