Abstract
While evidence can help inform best practice, it needs to be placed in context. There may be no evidence available or applicable for a specific patient with his or her own set of conditions, capabilities, beliefs, expectations and social circumstances. There are areas of uncertainty, ethics and aspects of care for which there is no one right answer.
General practice is an art as well as a science. Quality of care also lies with the nature of the clinical relationship, with communication and with truly informed decision-making. The BACK TO BACK section stimulates debate, with two professionals presenting their opposing views regarding a clinical, ethical or political issue.