BMC Primary Care is calling for submissions to our Collection Communication in primary care. Effective communication in primary care is crucial for fostering strong patient-doctor relationships and enhancing health outcomes. This Collection aims to explore the various dimensions of communication within primary care settings, including patient-doctor interactions, the role of health literacy, and the dynamics of shared decision-making. By investigating these elements, we can better understand how communication influences patient experiences, satisfaction, and adherence to treatment plans.

The significance of communication in primary care has gained heightened attention, particularly in light of recent advances in telehealth and digital health technologies. These innovations have transformed traditional communication methods, presenting both opportunities and challenges for healthcare providers. Additionally, effective communication strategies have been shown to improve patient engagement, reduce misunderstandings, and promote collaborative care. As healthcare systems increasingly prioritize patient-centered approaches, understanding and enhancing communication practices is essential for delivering high-quality primary care.

Continued research in this field may lead to the development of novel communication frameworks and training programs that equip healthcare providers with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of patient interactions. This could result in more effective shared decision-making processes, ultimately improving health outcomes and patient satisfaction. Additionally, advancements in technology may facilitate more personalized communication strategies, bridging gaps in understanding and fostering stronger patient-provider relationships.

In this Collection, we welcome submissions that cover a wide array of topics, including but not limited to:

- Strategies for enhancing patient-doctor communication

- Health literacy and patient engagement

- Impact of technology on healthcare communication

- Shared decision-making in primary care

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.

Substance use disorders are a multifaceted issue that poses significant challenges to primary care providers and the healthcare system at large. This Collection aims to explore various dimensions of substance use management, including the identification and treatment of drug, alcohol, and tobacco use disorders. Research that focuses on screening, diagnosis, and risk assessment in primary care settings is particularly valuable in understanding how to effectively manage these disorders and reduce their impact on individuals and communities.

Understanding and addressing substance use disorders is crucial for enhancing public health outcomes and ensuring the well-being of patients. Recent advances in screening tools and interventions have shown promise in identifying individuals at risk and providing them with appropriate support and treatment. By fostering collaboration between primary care providers, mental health professionals, and community organizations, we may witness a significant shift in how substance use is perceived and managed, ultimately improving health outcomes and quality of life for affected individuals.

We invite submissions on a range of topics that include but are not limited to:

• Innovative screening methods for substance use disorders
• Interventions for alcohol use disorders
• Management strategies for tobacco cessation
• Risk assessment approaches in primary care

All manuscripts submitted to this journal, including those submitted to collections and special issues, are assessed in line with our editorial policies and the journal’s peer review process. Reviewers and editors are required to declare competing interests and can be excluded from the peer review process if a competing interest exists.