Question: What will gastroenterology look like in 10 years?
Michael Dragutsky. Chairman of One GI (Nashville, Tenn.): Two clinical emerging areas, which will be mainstays of practice, are targeted preventive screening based on patients’ individual genetic information and therapeutic adjustment of individual microbiomes, as the role the gut primarily plays in a multitude of diseases (such as autoimmune diseases, brain health and obesity) becomes better understood. Additionally, consolidation will continue with eventual development of regional and supra-regional mega-gastroenterology groups.
Andy Paulson. Executive director of Central Illinois Endoscopy Center (East Peoria): I believe that in 10 years gastroenterology will be made up of large groups that are private equity-owned and hospital-owned. I believe the specialty will be in high demand but will experience provider shortages.