Building a Neurogastroenterology Unit: Why, Where, and How?

Area of Science:

• Neurogastroenterology
• Gut-Brain Axis Disorders
• Public Health

Background:

• Gut-brain axis disorders are prevalent public health issues, frequently leading to medical consultations.
• Patients with these conditions often face diagnostic delays and insufficient evaluation due to underestimation and inadequate healthcare system incentives.
• Neurogastroenterology is underrepresented in medical education and research in Germany, exacerbating the problem.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the critical need for improved diagnostic and treatment pathways for gut-brain axis disorders.
• To advocate for a systemic change in healthcare policy to address the underrepresentation of neurogastroenterology.
• To propose a structured approach for establishing specialized neurogastroenterology units.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of the current state of neurogastroenterology in the German healthcare system.
• Evaluation of existing reimbursement structures and their impact on specialized care.
• Proposal of a top-down strategy for implementing neurogastroenterology units.

Main Results:

• Inadequate reimbursement structures hinder the development of neurogastroenterological care.
• A "bottom-up" approach is insufficient; a "top-down" health policy strategy is required.
• The establishment of interdisciplinary neurogastroenterology units in tertiary centers is essential.

Conclusions:

• Neurogastroenterology units must be established via health policy directives due to a lack of incentives.
• These units should be interdisciplinary, located in tertiary centers, and foster network structures.
• Information sharing via digital tools and apps can enhance interdisciplinary care and patient education.