Many gastroenterologists are worried about a physician shortage and colonoscopy backlogs in the coming years.
Eight leaders in gastroenterology spoke with Becker’s ASC Review about these threats and others they perceive to be the biggest in the industry.
Editor’s note: These responses were edited lightly for clarity and brevity.
Question: What are the biggest threats to gastroenterology?
Vonda Reeves, MD. Gastroenterologist at GI Associates & Endoscopy Center (Flowood, Miss.): An increasing inability to meet the needs of the population, as more and more aging GI doctors leave practice. Supply will now meet the demand. A second concern is the role that insurance companies play in patient decision-making via physician assistants. Third, cutbacks in reimbursement by federal and private payers will create even larger financial burdens on practices that will ultimately influence practice decisions.