Retrieve specific patient details by ID from the Cliniko healthcare system to access medical records and manage clinical workflows.
Get a specific patient by ID
| Name | Required | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|---|
| patient_id | Yes | Patient ID |
Changes observed during successful MCP inspections.
v1.0.0Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?
With no annotations, the description must disclose behavioral traits. It only states 'Get' implying idempotent read, but does not mention error behavior (e.g., if ID not found), authentication requirements, or whether the response is a full patient object. Minimal disclosure.
Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.
Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?
The description is a single sentence with no extraneous words, front-loaded with the verb and resource. Efficient and clear.
Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.
Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?
Given the tool is simple (single required parameter, no output schema), the description should still specify what is returned (e.g., patient details). It fails to mention the response format, leaving the agent uncertain about the tool's output.
Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.
Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?
The input schema covers 100% of parameters with description 'Patient ID'. The description echoes 'by ID' but adds no additional meaning beyond the schema. Baseline score of 3 applies.
Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.
Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?
The description clearly states the verb 'Get' and the resource 'specific patient by ID'. It is unambiguous, but does not differentiate from sibling tools like 'get_appointment' or 'get_invoice', which have similar structure.
Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.
Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?
No guidance on when to use this tool vs alternatives such as 'list_patients' or 'create_patient'. No when-not-to-use or preconditions provided.
Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.