Optimizing Multispecialty Preventive Care: Referral Patterns, Adherence, and Remission in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Dermatology
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) are common in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), affecting skin and eyes.
• Current guidelines recommend multidisciplinary surveillance, but referral practices are inconsistent.
• Inconsistent referrals may impact IBD disease control and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze referral patterns to dermatology and ophthalmology for IBD patients.
• To assess the association between referral adherence and disease remission.
• To compare referral reasons and adherence rates between dermatology and ophthalmology.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of adult IBD patients at an urban academic medical center.
• Inclusion of patients with active dermatology or ophthalmology referrals.
• Analysis of referral patterns, appointment adherence, and remission status.

Main Results:

• Referral adherence to both specialties was significantly linked to IBD remission (p < 0.05).
• Dermatology referrals showed higher adherence and were often preventive.
• Ophthalmology referrals were more frequently symptom-driven and complication-related.

Conclusions:

• Preventive dermatology surveillance in IBD patients correlates with better adherence and outcomes.
• A proactive model for dermatology referrals may improve IBD management.
• Standardized referral frameworks, particularly for ophthalmology, are needed to enhance multidisciplinary IBD care.