According to a recent Panhellenic Conference, many patients suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are becoming increasingly frustrated with their doctors.

The conference featured a panel of doctors, researchers, and IBD patients who shared their experiences and discussed the growing patient dissatisfaction with the medical profession.

What is inflammatory bowel disease?

IBD is a chronic condition that affects the digestive system. The two most common forms of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

The disease causes inflammation in the lining of the digestive tract, which can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, and fatigue. The cause of IBD is unknown, and there is no known cure.

Why are patients frustrated with their doctors?

Many IBD patients feel that their doctors are not doing enough to help them manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Some common complaints include:.

Doctors not listening to their concerns or dismissing their symptoms
Doctors not providing enough information or education about the disease
Doctors not offering a wide enough range of treatments or not considering alternative therapies
Difficulty in getting appointments with specialists or long wait times for diagnostic tests or procedures
Insufficient support from healthcare professionals in managing the disease on a day-to-day basis

What can be done to improve patient care?

The panel discussed several strategies for improving patient care and addressing the frustrations that many IBD patients are experiencing. Some of these strategies include:.

More effective communication between doctors and patients, including better listening skills and more thorough explanation of treatment options
Increased access to specialist healthcare providers and shorter wait times for diagnostic tests and procedures
Greater use of digital healthcare technologies to empower patients to better manage their disease and access healthcare support
The development of more patient-centred care models, including personalised treatment plans and greater involvement of patients in decision-making around their healthcare

The impact of patient frustration on IBD care

The panel also discussed the impact of patient frustration on IBD care. They noted that when patients become frustrated with their doctors, they may be less likely to follow treatment plans or seek out medical care when needed.

This can lead to poorer health outcomes and greater healthcare costs in the long term.

It is important for doctors and healthcare professionals to take patient concerns seriously and work collaboratively with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that take into account their symptoms, lifestyle and concerns.

Conclusion

The Panhellenic Conference has revealed the growing frustration of IBD patients with their doctors and the medical profession.

IBD is a chronic condition that can have a significant impact on a patient’s quality of life, and it is important for doctors and healthcare professionals to work collaboratively with patients to develop personalized treatment plans that address their symptoms, concerns and lifestyle. By improving communication, increasing access to specialist healthcare providers and embracing digital healthcare technologies, the healthcare profession can work to improve patient care and outcomes for those living with IBD.