[Specific competence to practice colonoscopy].

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Education
• Health Policy

Background:

• Lack of consensus on colonoscopy competence criteria in Latin America poses risks.
• Inadequate digestive endoscopy skills training increases diagnostic/therapeutic errors and patient harm.

Framework:

• Qualitative expert consensus study using the Delphi method.
• Semi-structured interviews informed iterative questionnaire rounds to achieve >70% agreement.

Implementation:

• Experts achieved >80% participation in consensus rounds.
• Identified performance criteria for colonoscopy competence.

Implications:

• Standardized criteria enhance colonoscopy quality and patient safety.
• Valuable tool for training and evaluating specialists in Latin America.
• Aims to improve health outcomes through standardized competence.