Clinical uncertainty, research and ethical responsibilities of today's doctors

Abstract Clinical uncertainty has harmed patients and, unresolved, wasted resources. This continues today, so today's doctors have a clear duty to help contribute to its identification and resolution, working with all those who have a legitimate interest. Ethical codes support this indirectly, but endorsement is far from emphatic given its clinical importance. In addressing this issue, I present some suggestions around uncertainty in practice so we might be able to: • recognize and deal with uncertainty • practice with justifiable confidence • innovate safely • and provide better care.