Related Experiment Videos
Gastroenterology consultations from the internal medicine physician's perspective
J P Waring1, J A DiSario, R A Sanowski
1Department of Internal Medicine, Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona.
Journal of General Internal Medicine
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Most internal medicine physicians prefer ordering endoscopic procedures without gastroenterology consultation. However, recently trained doctors are more likely to seek these specialist consultations for gastrointestinal issues.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Internal medicine physicians often manage gastrointestinal (GI) conditions.
- The role of gastroenterology consultations in managing GI illnesses is evolving.
- Physician preferences for ordering diagnostic procedures vary.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how internal medicine physicians utilize gastroenterology consultations.
- To understand physician attitudes towards ordering endoscopic procedures.
- To identify factors influencing the decision to consult a gastroenterologist.
Main Methods:
- A survey was conducted among licensed internal medicine physicians in Arizona.
- Physicians indicated their likelihood of seeking gastroenterology consultations for various GI conditions.
- Chi-square analysis was used for statistical comparisons between physician groups.
Main Results:
- A 46% response rate was achieved.
- Most physicians (65% for esophagogastroduodenoscopy, 64% for colonoscopy) believe these procedures should be available without consultation.
- Experienced physicians were less likely to consult for conditions requiring endoscopy, unlike internal medicine residents who were more likely to seek consultations, especially for bleeding events.
Conclusions:
- A majority of internal medicine physicians desire direct access to ordering endoscopic procedures.
- Newly trained physicians show a higher propensity to request gastroenterology consultations for procedural and diagnostic challenges.
- This suggests a potential shift in referral patterns based on physician training and experience.