Integrated Care for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: The Future Is Now

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common symptom-based condition of heterogeneous pathogenesis and clinical phenotype. This heterogeneity and multidimensional nature creates significant diagnostic and treatment challenges. Recent evidence has documented the benefits of diet and behavioral interventions. These nonmedical strategies are causing a shift from the traditional care model to a multidisciplinary care model. Recent evidence suggests that collaborative, team-based integrated care leads to better clinical outcomes and reduced cost per cure compared with traditional care. Although it is growing increasingly clear that integrated care offers significant benefits to IBS patients, widespread dissemination will require solutions to structural, cultural, and financial barriers.