Gastroenterologists face rising clinical and operational obstacles as the GI diseases become more prevalent in the U.S. population and reimbursement rates fall for essential procedures.
Here are five studies scaring GIs:
1. Gastrointestinal cancers are expected to double globally by 2050, according to a new multi-institutional study co-led by Los Angeles-based Cedars-Sinai, among others. According to the study, the biggest increases will be in pancreatic cancer diagnoses and colorectal cancer deaths. Ju Dong Yang, MD, a professor and medical director of Cedars-Sinai’s liver cancer program said that up to 70% of liver cancers are preventable. While hepatitis B and C were once main drivers of liver cancer, there are new forces at play.
2. By 2036, the U.S. is projected to have a near balance of colorectal surgeons nationwide, with a supply of 3,360 physicians compared to demand for 3,380, a shortfall of just 20 surgeons, or 99% adequacy overall, according to projections from the Department of Health and Human Services’ Health Resource. However, that national equilibrium masks sharp regional imbalances. Several large states, including California, Texas, Florida and Georgia, are projected to face notable shortages, while parts of the Mountain West and South are expected to meet just 33% to 50% of projected demand.