This paper proposes a clinical method for general practice which is patient-centred and which ensures that the doctor's agenda is supported to secure 'best practice'. It encompasses self-learning for GPs which is patient-focused and describes the encouragement and support of patient self-care. The method attempts to be pragmatic and usable within GPs' available time. The method, however, is not solely focused on the GP; it encompasses the primary health care team and the patient. It uses clinical information systems to assist in the management of the patient care plan, to supply information to the GP and patient, in order to aid shared decision making and to quality assure clinical activity. It goes further by extending the care process to handle 'virtual' encounters in which the clinical information systems play a central role.