Report of the multisociety task force on GI training

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Hepatology
• Medical Education

Background:

• The field of gastroenterology and hepatology is increasingly complex.
• There is a growing need for specialized training in specific digestive disease areas.
• Current training durations may not adequately reflect specialized expertise.

Purpose of the Study:

• To recommend the development of a competency-based curriculum for gastroenterology/hepatology training.
• To integrate Maintenance of Certification (MOC) with specialized training pathways.
• To enhance patient care through specialized physician expertise.

Main Methods:

• A task force recommended collaboration between 4 gastroenterology/hepatology societies and the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM).
• The focus is on developing a curriculum based on defined competencies.
• Training assessment will shift from duration to demonstrated achievement.

Main Results:

• The proposed curriculum will accommodate training and practice in specific gastroenterology/hepatology subspecialties.
• Trainees will gain enhanced ability and experience in specific disease areas or procedures.
• Training programs will measure trainee achievements against defined competencies.

Conclusions:

• Implementing competency-based training pathways will benefit patients by ensuring specialized care.
• This approach aligns training with the evolving complexity of digestive diseases.
• The Maintenance of Certification process will be adapted to recognize specialized expertise.