Multi-stakeholder Delphi consensus on future care for inflammatory bowel disease in Belgium

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Health Services Research
• Public Health

Background:

• Increasing prevalence of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) presents significant financial and organizational challenges to healthcare systems.
• Evolving care models are necessary to manage the growing burden of IBD.
• A structured approach is needed to optimize IBD patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a nationwide consensus on the optimal organization of care for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) patients.
• To address the multifaceted needs of IBD patients within the Belgian healthcare context.
• To provide a framework for improving IBD care delivery.

Main Methods:

• A modified Delphi process was employed, engaging diverse Belgian stakeholders in IBD care.
• Two rounds of voting and a consensus meeting were conducted to develop key statements.
• The methodology ensured broad input and agreement among participants.

Main Results:

• Consensus was achieved on thirty-three statements covering six critical domains of IBD care.
• Key domains include IBD registry utilization, patient-reported data, and multidisciplinary care models.
• Other vital areas identified are the role of IBD nurses, access to diagnostics, and medication reimbursement.

Conclusions:

• A widely supported consensus for organizing IBD care in Belgium has been established.
• Future efforts should prioritize a balance between enhancing clinical outcomes, ensuring quality of care, and maintaining financial sustainability.
• This consensus provides a roadmap for structured improvements in IBD patient management.