Intention to Treat

New research using functional brain imaging reveals that many patients considered to be in a coma or vegetative state and who are unresponsive may actually be conscious and aware. A full transcript of this episode is available at nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2408662.

The millions of people worldwide who are suffering from a vast array of disabling symptoms long after being infected with SARS-CoV-2 may eventually benefit from a new consensus definition of long Covid. A full transcript of this episode is available at nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2407614.

In recent years, substantial progress has been made in developing brain-computer interfaces that could restore the ability of patients with neurodegenerative diseases and other conditions to communicate. A full transcript of this episode is available at nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2407613.

As race-based diagnostic tools, such as pulse oximeters that function poorly on darker skin, continue to lead to inequitable care, a growing movement is working to weed them out of U.S. health care. A full transcript of this episode is available at nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2407611.

A key measure of kidney function and a risk calculator for vaginal birth after cesarean delivery are among the many tools that have long contributed to health and health care inequities for Black patients. A full transcript of this episode is available at nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMp2405797.