New methods of detecting and treating spinal muscular atrophy can be increasingly complex to navigate for both healthcare professionals and at-risk families.

Most GPs surveyed had used a placebo in practice at least once, with active placebos (active treatments used primarily to generate positive expectations) more commonly used than inert placebos.

This viewpoint discusses immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) drugs for the treatment of rare and less common cancers.

If a medical practitioner is to care for the whole person across their lifespan, they must have expertise in patient care across organ systems, treatment modalities and demographics.

We are more than the sum of our body parts. Our dignity and equality have practical implications for narrative, patient outcomes and influence in general practice.

This article uses lived experience to outline some of the crucial trigger points where support from the general practitioner can have a significant impact on a positive path forward for the patient.

Paying attention to communication is an important part of respect for patients, to foster the principles of patient-centred care and shared decision making, and to promote better medical outcomes.

Achievement of personalised cancer care requires a system-wide approach that targets the patient, healthcare provider and healthcare system with data informing practice.

The benefits of a strong doctor–patient relationship obtained through continuity of care should not be lost as our health system becomes more complex.

Education and learning activities that specifically target areas of medicolegal risk can help reduce the likelihood and severity of future medicolegal events.

Dedicated men’s sexual and reproductive health clinics have the potential to improve health outcomes for men by overcoming barriers to healthcare and engaging men in healthcare services.

Technology such as social media can open up opportunities to engage, educate and inform; however, it is important to recognise that doctors’ legal and professional obligations apply online.

When an error leads to possible patient harm and a complaint, the impact on doctors and patients can be profound.

Care in the 21st century demands better outcomes through more comprehensive data to enhance the provider’s ability to deliver care and increase the patient’s involvement in their own healthcare.

Expected frequency trees can be used to promote appropriate patient choice of colorectal cancer screening modality.