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Child of The New Gastroenterologist
Remembering Why We Are In Medicine
Dear Friends,
There have been recent policy changes that may be affecting trainees and practicing physicians, whether directly impacting our current practices or influencing the decisions that shape our careers. During these challenging times, I am trying to remind myself more often of why I am in medicine – my patients. I will continue to advocate for my patients on Hill Days to affect change in policy. I will continue to provide the best care I can and fight for resources to do so. I will continue to adapt to the changing climate and do what is best for my practice so that I can deliver the care I think my patients need. By remembering why I am in medicine, I can fight for a future of medicine and science that is still bright.
In this issue’s “In Focus” article, Dr. Yasmin G. Hernandez-Barco and Dr. Motaz Ashkar review the diagnostic and treatment approaches to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, including common symptoms, differential diagnoses, and the different pancreatic enzyme replacement therapies.
Medications for weight loss are becoming more widely available; however, the literature on what to do with these medications in gastrointestinal endoscopy is still lacking. Dr. Sitharthan Sekar and Dr. Nikiya Asamoah summarize the current data and available guidelines in our “Short Clinical Review.”
With another new academic year upon us, this issue’s “Early Career” section features Dr. Allon Kahn’s top tips for becoming an effective gastroenterology consultant. He describes the 5 principles that would improve patient care and relationships with referring providers.
In the “Finance/Legal” section, Dr. Koushik Das dissects what happens when a physician gets sued, including the basis of malpractice suits, consequences, and anticipated timeline.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), Communications/Managing Editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact, because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: the pancreas was first discovered by a Greek surgeon, Herophilus, in 336 BC, but its exocrine and endocrine functions were not described until the 1850s-1860s by D. Moyse in Paris and Paul Langerhans in Berlin, respectively.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
There have been recent policy changes that may be affecting trainees and practicing physicians, whether directly impacting our current practices or influencing the decisions that shape our careers. During these challenging times, I am trying to remind myself more often of why I am in medicine – my patients. I will continue to advocate for my patients on Hill Days to affect change in policy. I will continue to provide the best care I can and fight for resources to do so. I will continue to adapt to the changing climate and do what is best for my practice so that I can deliver the care I think my patients need. By remembering why I am in medicine, I can fight for a future of medicine and science that is still bright.
In this issue’s “In Focus” article, Dr. Yasmin G. Hernandez-Barco and Dr. Motaz Ashkar review the diagnostic and treatment approaches to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, including common symptoms, differential diagnoses, and the different pancreatic enzyme replacement therapies.
Medications for weight loss are becoming more widely available; however, the literature on what to do with these medications in gastrointestinal endoscopy is still lacking. Dr. Sitharthan Sekar and Dr. Nikiya Asamoah summarize the current data and available guidelines in our “Short Clinical Review.”
With another new academic year upon us, this issue’s “Early Career” section features Dr. Allon Kahn’s top tips for becoming an effective gastroenterology consultant. He describes the 5 principles that would improve patient care and relationships with referring providers.
In the “Finance/Legal” section, Dr. Koushik Das dissects what happens when a physician gets sued, including the basis of malpractice suits, consequences, and anticipated timeline.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), Communications/Managing Editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact, because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: the pancreas was first discovered by a Greek surgeon, Herophilus, in 336 BC, but its exocrine and endocrine functions were not described until the 1850s-1860s by D. Moyse in Paris and Paul Langerhans in Berlin, respectively.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
There have been recent policy changes that may be affecting trainees and practicing physicians, whether directly impacting our current practices or influencing the decisions that shape our careers. During these challenging times, I am trying to remind myself more often of why I am in medicine – my patients. I will continue to advocate for my patients on Hill Days to affect change in policy. I will continue to provide the best care I can and fight for resources to do so. I will continue to adapt to the changing climate and do what is best for my practice so that I can deliver the care I think my patients need. By remembering why I am in medicine, I can fight for a future of medicine and science that is still bright.
In this issue’s “In Focus” article, Dr. Yasmin G. Hernandez-Barco and Dr. Motaz Ashkar review the diagnostic and treatment approaches to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, including common symptoms, differential diagnoses, and the different pancreatic enzyme replacement therapies.
Medications for weight loss are becoming more widely available; however, the literature on what to do with these medications in gastrointestinal endoscopy is still lacking. Dr. Sitharthan Sekar and Dr. Nikiya Asamoah summarize the current data and available guidelines in our “Short Clinical Review.”
With another new academic year upon us, this issue’s “Early Career” section features Dr. Allon Kahn’s top tips for becoming an effective gastroenterology consultant. He describes the 5 principles that would improve patient care and relationships with referring providers.
In the “Finance/Legal” section, Dr. Koushik Das dissects what happens when a physician gets sued, including the basis of malpractice suits, consequences, and anticipated timeline.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), Communications/Managing Editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact, because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: the pancreas was first discovered by a Greek surgeon, Herophilus, in 336 BC, but its exocrine and endocrine functions were not described until the 1850s-1860s by D. Moyse in Paris and Paul Langerhans in Berlin, respectively.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
Experiencing DDW as an Early Career GI
Dear Friends,
Like many readers, I just returned from Digestive Disease Week® (DDW) in San Diego, California. For the first time in my early career, my experience was not just overwhelming and exhausting. Before, I wanted to do everything – lectures, posters, meetings with friends, prospective research collaborators, and more! This year, I acknowledged that instead of spreading myself thin and not fully engaging, I made a focused daily schedule mixed with productivity and social events, selecting only what was most important to me at this time in my career. This time, after DDW, instead of giving in to my inner introvert and holing myself in my house for a week to recover, I am invigorated by what I learned and the people I met. I can’t wait to see what’s to come next year!
In this issue’s “In Focus”, Dr. Evan Dellon describes his diagnostic approach, including a clear history, endoscopic evaluation with biopsy, and ruling out other causes of esophageal eosinophilia. He emphasizes that treatment should target both inflammation and fibrostenosis and reviews the guidelines and evidence behind first-line treatments, surveillance, and long-term maintenance.
In the second of a two-part series in the “Short Clinical Review” section, Dr. Christopher Vélez, Dr. Rosa L. Yu, and Dr. Jennifer Dimino discuss care for patients with disorders of brain-gut interaction from historically marginalized communities. They highlight ways to improve care for these patients in day-to-day clinical practice.
The transition from trainee to a practicing gastroenterologist may bring with it responsibilities of giving feedback to trainees and/or colleagues to improve. In the “Early Career” section, Dr. Michelle Baliss and Dr. Christine Hachem give practical tips on how best to deliver feedback, with a focus on creating time, building rapport, bidirectional communication, and more.
Lastly, in the “Finance/Legal” section, John S. Gardner, a financial advisor, guides trainees and early career gastroenterologists through estate planning – why it’s important, how to do it effectively, and long-term benefits to starting early.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), Communications/Managing Editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: the first case of eosinophilic esophagitis was only first described in 1978 and became a distinct entity in the early 1990s.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
Like many readers, I just returned from Digestive Disease Week® (DDW) in San Diego, California. For the first time in my early career, my experience was not just overwhelming and exhausting. Before, I wanted to do everything – lectures, posters, meetings with friends, prospective research collaborators, and more! This year, I acknowledged that instead of spreading myself thin and not fully engaging, I made a focused daily schedule mixed with productivity and social events, selecting only what was most important to me at this time in my career. This time, after DDW, instead of giving in to my inner introvert and holing myself in my house for a week to recover, I am invigorated by what I learned and the people I met. I can’t wait to see what’s to come next year!
In this issue’s “In Focus”, Dr. Evan Dellon describes his diagnostic approach, including a clear history, endoscopic evaluation with biopsy, and ruling out other causes of esophageal eosinophilia. He emphasizes that treatment should target both inflammation and fibrostenosis and reviews the guidelines and evidence behind first-line treatments, surveillance, and long-term maintenance.
In the second of a two-part series in the “Short Clinical Review” section, Dr. Christopher Vélez, Dr. Rosa L. Yu, and Dr. Jennifer Dimino discuss care for patients with disorders of brain-gut interaction from historically marginalized communities. They highlight ways to improve care for these patients in day-to-day clinical practice.
The transition from trainee to a practicing gastroenterologist may bring with it responsibilities of giving feedback to trainees and/or colleagues to improve. In the “Early Career” section, Dr. Michelle Baliss and Dr. Christine Hachem give practical tips on how best to deliver feedback, with a focus on creating time, building rapport, bidirectional communication, and more.
Lastly, in the “Finance/Legal” section, John S. Gardner, a financial advisor, guides trainees and early career gastroenterologists through estate planning – why it’s important, how to do it effectively, and long-term benefits to starting early.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), Communications/Managing Editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: the first case of eosinophilic esophagitis was only first described in 1978 and became a distinct entity in the early 1990s.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
Like many readers, I just returned from Digestive Disease Week® (DDW) in San Diego, California. For the first time in my early career, my experience was not just overwhelming and exhausting. Before, I wanted to do everything – lectures, posters, meetings with friends, prospective research collaborators, and more! This year, I acknowledged that instead of spreading myself thin and not fully engaging, I made a focused daily schedule mixed with productivity and social events, selecting only what was most important to me at this time in my career. This time, after DDW, instead of giving in to my inner introvert and holing myself in my house for a week to recover, I am invigorated by what I learned and the people I met. I can’t wait to see what’s to come next year!
In this issue’s “In Focus”, Dr. Evan Dellon describes his diagnostic approach, including a clear history, endoscopic evaluation with biopsy, and ruling out other causes of esophageal eosinophilia. He emphasizes that treatment should target both inflammation and fibrostenosis and reviews the guidelines and evidence behind first-line treatments, surveillance, and long-term maintenance.
In the second of a two-part series in the “Short Clinical Review” section, Dr. Christopher Vélez, Dr. Rosa L. Yu, and Dr. Jennifer Dimino discuss care for patients with disorders of brain-gut interaction from historically marginalized communities. They highlight ways to improve care for these patients in day-to-day clinical practice.
The transition from trainee to a practicing gastroenterologist may bring with it responsibilities of giving feedback to trainees and/or colleagues to improve. In the “Early Career” section, Dr. Michelle Baliss and Dr. Christine Hachem give practical tips on how best to deliver feedback, with a focus on creating time, building rapport, bidirectional communication, and more.
Lastly, in the “Finance/Legal” section, John S. Gardner, a financial advisor, guides trainees and early career gastroenterologists through estate planning – why it’s important, how to do it effectively, and long-term benefits to starting early.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), Communications/Managing Editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: the first case of eosinophilic esophagitis was only first described in 1978 and became a distinct entity in the early 1990s.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis
Finding and Following Your Passion
Dear Friends,
Over the last year, I have been reading more about professional identity and professional branding, all of which have evolved in the setting of social media. However, the root of it remains constant — finding the intersection(s) of what you love. A common problem, especially as a trainee and early-career gastroenterologist, is that you may have many interests: various disease processes, innovation, medical education, leadership development, and much more. Since becoming faculty, I continue to define and refine my professional niche, trying to distinguish my “interests” from “passions.” It is a journey that my mentors advise me not to rush through and I am enjoying every moment of it!
In this issue’s “In Focus,” Dr. Hamza Salim, Dr. Anni Chowdhury, and Dr. Lavanya Viswanathan provide a practical guide for the clinical evaluation of chronic constipation and a systematic approach to treatment.
In the first of a two-part series in the “Short Clinical Review” section, Dr. Christopher Velez and Dr. Kara J. Jencks discuss the health inequities among sexual and gender minority (SGM) patients, particularly with disorders of brain-gut interaction (DBGI). They review common SGM terminology, sample verbiage for trauma-informed care, and case presentations to help guide our approach to providing care for SGM patients with DGBI.
The transition from trainee to early faculty may be difficult for those who are interested in research but struggle with the change from being a part of a research team to running one. In the “Early Career” section, Dr. Lauren Feld and colleagues describes her experience establishing a research lab as an early-career academic, from creating a niche to time management and mentorship.
The Federal Trade Commission’s noncompete ban made big news in April 2024 but there is still a lot of gray area for physicians. Dr. Timothy Craig Allen explains the ruling, what it means to physicians, the status of it today, and what the future may hold. Lastly, for “Private Practice Perspectives” in collaboration with Digestive Health Physicians Alliance, I interview Dr. Vasu Appalaneni on her use of artificial intelligence in private practice.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), Communications/Managing Editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: Polyethylene glycol was first used in the 1940s and 1950s to understand the physiology of the intestines, and first published as a compound for colonoscopy bowel preparation in 1981.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
Over the last year, I have been reading more about professional identity and professional branding, all of which have evolved in the setting of social media. However, the root of it remains constant — finding the intersection(s) of what you love. A common problem, especially as a trainee and early-career gastroenterologist, is that you may have many interests: various disease processes, innovation, medical education, leadership development, and much more. Since becoming faculty, I continue to define and refine my professional niche, trying to distinguish my “interests” from “passions.” It is a journey that my mentors advise me not to rush through and I am enjoying every moment of it!
In this issue’s “In Focus,” Dr. Hamza Salim, Dr. Anni Chowdhury, and Dr. Lavanya Viswanathan provide a practical guide for the clinical evaluation of chronic constipation and a systematic approach to treatment.
In the first of a two-part series in the “Short Clinical Review” section, Dr. Christopher Velez and Dr. Kara J. Jencks discuss the health inequities among sexual and gender minority (SGM) patients, particularly with disorders of brain-gut interaction (DBGI). They review common SGM terminology, sample verbiage for trauma-informed care, and case presentations to help guide our approach to providing care for SGM patients with DGBI.
The transition from trainee to early faculty may be difficult for those who are interested in research but struggle with the change from being a part of a research team to running one. In the “Early Career” section, Dr. Lauren Feld and colleagues describes her experience establishing a research lab as an early-career academic, from creating a niche to time management and mentorship.
The Federal Trade Commission’s noncompete ban made big news in April 2024 but there is still a lot of gray area for physicians. Dr. Timothy Craig Allen explains the ruling, what it means to physicians, the status of it today, and what the future may hold. Lastly, for “Private Practice Perspectives” in collaboration with Digestive Health Physicians Alliance, I interview Dr. Vasu Appalaneni on her use of artificial intelligence in private practice.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), Communications/Managing Editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: Polyethylene glycol was first used in the 1940s and 1950s to understand the physiology of the intestines, and first published as a compound for colonoscopy bowel preparation in 1981.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
Over the last year, I have been reading more about professional identity and professional branding, all of which have evolved in the setting of social media. However, the root of it remains constant — finding the intersection(s) of what you love. A common problem, especially as a trainee and early-career gastroenterologist, is that you may have many interests: various disease processes, innovation, medical education, leadership development, and much more. Since becoming faculty, I continue to define and refine my professional niche, trying to distinguish my “interests” from “passions.” It is a journey that my mentors advise me not to rush through and I am enjoying every moment of it!
In this issue’s “In Focus,” Dr. Hamza Salim, Dr. Anni Chowdhury, and Dr. Lavanya Viswanathan provide a practical guide for the clinical evaluation of chronic constipation and a systematic approach to treatment.
In the first of a two-part series in the “Short Clinical Review” section, Dr. Christopher Velez and Dr. Kara J. Jencks discuss the health inequities among sexual and gender minority (SGM) patients, particularly with disorders of brain-gut interaction (DBGI). They review common SGM terminology, sample verbiage for trauma-informed care, and case presentations to help guide our approach to providing care for SGM patients with DGBI.
The transition from trainee to early faculty may be difficult for those who are interested in research but struggle with the change from being a part of a research team to running one. In the “Early Career” section, Dr. Lauren Feld and colleagues describes her experience establishing a research lab as an early-career academic, from creating a niche to time management and mentorship.
The Federal Trade Commission’s noncompete ban made big news in April 2024 but there is still a lot of gray area for physicians. Dr. Timothy Craig Allen explains the ruling, what it means to physicians, the status of it today, and what the future may hold. Lastly, for “Private Practice Perspectives” in collaboration with Digestive Health Physicians Alliance, I interview Dr. Vasu Appalaneni on her use of artificial intelligence in private practice.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), Communications/Managing Editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: Polyethylene glycol was first used in the 1940s and 1950s to understand the physiology of the intestines, and first published as a compound for colonoscopy bowel preparation in 1981.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Financial Empowerment Journey
Dear Friends,
One of the challenges I faced during training was managing my life outside of work. Many astute trainees started their financial empowerment journey early. However, I was too overwhelmed with what I did not know (the financial world) and just avoided it. Over the last year, I finally decided to embrace my lack of knowledge and find the support of experts, just as we would in medicine. A lot of questions from my journey translated into several articles in the “Finance” section of The New Gastroenterologist, so I encourage those who need guidance on embarking on their financial journeys to explore that section!
In the “In Focus” section, Dr. Patrick Chang, Dr. Supisara Tintara, and Dr. Jennifer Phan – all from the University of Southern California – review diagnostic modalities to assess gastroesophageal reflux disease with an emphasis on medical, endoscopic, and surgical managements.
With the rise in metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), patient education is starting in the primary care and gastroenterologist’s office. Dr. Newsha Nikzad, medical student Daniel Huynh, and Dr. Nikki Duong share their approach to ask effectively about and communicate lifestyle modifications, with examples of using sensitive language and prompts to help guide patients, in the “Short Clinical Review” section.
The “Finance” section highlights the ins and outs of a physician mortgage loan and additional information for first time home buyers, reviewed by John G. Kelley II, a physician mortgage specialist and vice president of mortgage lending at Arvest Bank.
Lastly, in the “Early Career” section, Dr. Neil Gupta shares his experiences of transitioning from academic medicine to building a private practice group. He reflects on lessons learned from the first year after establishing his practice.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: The first proton pump inhibitor was omeprazole, discovered 45 years ago in 1979 in Sweden, and clinically available in the United States only 36 years ago in 1988.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
One of the challenges I faced during training was managing my life outside of work. Many astute trainees started their financial empowerment journey early. However, I was too overwhelmed with what I did not know (the financial world) and just avoided it. Over the last year, I finally decided to embrace my lack of knowledge and find the support of experts, just as we would in medicine. A lot of questions from my journey translated into several articles in the “Finance” section of The New Gastroenterologist, so I encourage those who need guidance on embarking on their financial journeys to explore that section!
In the “In Focus” section, Dr. Patrick Chang, Dr. Supisara Tintara, and Dr. Jennifer Phan – all from the University of Southern California – review diagnostic modalities to assess gastroesophageal reflux disease with an emphasis on medical, endoscopic, and surgical managements.
With the rise in metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), patient education is starting in the primary care and gastroenterologist’s office. Dr. Newsha Nikzad, medical student Daniel Huynh, and Dr. Nikki Duong share their approach to ask effectively about and communicate lifestyle modifications, with examples of using sensitive language and prompts to help guide patients, in the “Short Clinical Review” section.
The “Finance” section highlights the ins and outs of a physician mortgage loan and additional information for first time home buyers, reviewed by John G. Kelley II, a physician mortgage specialist and vice president of mortgage lending at Arvest Bank.
Lastly, in the “Early Career” section, Dr. Neil Gupta shares his experiences of transitioning from academic medicine to building a private practice group. He reflects on lessons learned from the first year after establishing his practice.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: The first proton pump inhibitor was omeprazole, discovered 45 years ago in 1979 in Sweden, and clinically available in the United States only 36 years ago in 1988.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
One of the challenges I faced during training was managing my life outside of work. Many astute trainees started their financial empowerment journey early. However, I was too overwhelmed with what I did not know (the financial world) and just avoided it. Over the last year, I finally decided to embrace my lack of knowledge and find the support of experts, just as we would in medicine. A lot of questions from my journey translated into several articles in the “Finance” section of The New Gastroenterologist, so I encourage those who need guidance on embarking on their financial journeys to explore that section!
In the “In Focus” section, Dr. Patrick Chang, Dr. Supisara Tintara, and Dr. Jennifer Phan – all from the University of Southern California – review diagnostic modalities to assess gastroesophageal reflux disease with an emphasis on medical, endoscopic, and surgical managements.
With the rise in metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), patient education is starting in the primary care and gastroenterologist’s office. Dr. Newsha Nikzad, medical student Daniel Huynh, and Dr. Nikki Duong share their approach to ask effectively about and communicate lifestyle modifications, with examples of using sensitive language and prompts to help guide patients, in the “Short Clinical Review” section.
The “Finance” section highlights the ins and outs of a physician mortgage loan and additional information for first time home buyers, reviewed by John G. Kelley II, a physician mortgage specialist and vice president of mortgage lending at Arvest Bank.
Lastly, in the “Early Career” section, Dr. Neil Gupta shares his experiences of transitioning from academic medicine to building a private practice group. He reflects on lessons learned from the first year after establishing his practice.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: The first proton pump inhibitor was omeprazole, discovered 45 years ago in 1979 in Sweden, and clinically available in the United States only 36 years ago in 1988.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Infinite Learning
Dear Friends,
This issue of The New Gastroenterologist marks my first year completed as faculty. It has been both the best year and the HARDEST year. I celebrated many successes, felt intellectually and emotionally drained by difficult and complicated cases, and learned that there is so much more I still do not know. But that’s the beauty of our field — we are constantly learning to be better physicians for our patients. To trainees and my fellow gastroenterologists in practice, never stop asking questions!
In this issue’s “In Focus,” Dr. Rajan Singh and Dr. Baharak Moshiree describe a practical approach to patients with bloating by evaluating and investigating the pathophysiology and etiology of bloating, such as food intolerances, visceral hypersensitivity, pelvic floor dysfunction, abdominophrenic dyssynergia, gut dysmotility, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, as well as treatment management. In the “Short Clinical Review” section, Dr. Ahmad Bazarbashi and his colleagues review when to refer complex polyps to an advanced endoscopist and the different techniques of advanced tissue resection, including endoscopic mucosal resection, endoscopic submucosal dissection, submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection, and full thickness resection.
Locum practices have become more popular among gastroenterologists. Dr. Catherine Bartholomew is a retired professor of medicine who was chief of gastroenterology at an academic institution, and is now working as a GI locum after retirement. She details what a locum tenens is, the role of the company, being an independent contractor, and the benefits.
Navigating and negotiating maternity and paternity leave may be challenging in private practice. Dr. Marybeth Spanarkel gives her opinion on the nuances of maternity/paternity leave in private practices, what it may mean financially, and things to inquire of the practice if planning to have children.
As we move from joining non-traditional practices and navigating family planning with private practices, Dr. Vasu Appalaneni shares her experiences with financial planning for retirement. She describes ways to financially plan a retirement, but also to consider aspects that affect financial well-being during retirement, including healthcare coverage, lifestyle and traveling, legal and estate, professional development, and emotional and social support.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), communications/managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are not without appreciating where we were: The first colonic polypectomy using an electrosurgical snare was performed by Dr. Hiromi Shinya at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City, in 1969.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
This issue of The New Gastroenterologist marks my first year completed as faculty. It has been both the best year and the HARDEST year. I celebrated many successes, felt intellectually and emotionally drained by difficult and complicated cases, and learned that there is so much more I still do not know. But that’s the beauty of our field — we are constantly learning to be better physicians for our patients. To trainees and my fellow gastroenterologists in practice, never stop asking questions!
In this issue’s “In Focus,” Dr. Rajan Singh and Dr. Baharak Moshiree describe a practical approach to patients with bloating by evaluating and investigating the pathophysiology and etiology of bloating, such as food intolerances, visceral hypersensitivity, pelvic floor dysfunction, abdominophrenic dyssynergia, gut dysmotility, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, as well as treatment management. In the “Short Clinical Review” section, Dr. Ahmad Bazarbashi and his colleagues review when to refer complex polyps to an advanced endoscopist and the different techniques of advanced tissue resection, including endoscopic mucosal resection, endoscopic submucosal dissection, submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection, and full thickness resection.
Locum practices have become more popular among gastroenterologists. Dr. Catherine Bartholomew is a retired professor of medicine who was chief of gastroenterology at an academic institution, and is now working as a GI locum after retirement. She details what a locum tenens is, the role of the company, being an independent contractor, and the benefits.
Navigating and negotiating maternity and paternity leave may be challenging in private practice. Dr. Marybeth Spanarkel gives her opinion on the nuances of maternity/paternity leave in private practices, what it may mean financially, and things to inquire of the practice if planning to have children.
As we move from joining non-traditional practices and navigating family planning with private practices, Dr. Vasu Appalaneni shares her experiences with financial planning for retirement. She describes ways to financially plan a retirement, but also to consider aspects that affect financial well-being during retirement, including healthcare coverage, lifestyle and traveling, legal and estate, professional development, and emotional and social support.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), communications/managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are not without appreciating where we were: The first colonic polypectomy using an electrosurgical snare was performed by Dr. Hiromi Shinya at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City, in 1969.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
This issue of The New Gastroenterologist marks my first year completed as faculty. It has been both the best year and the HARDEST year. I celebrated many successes, felt intellectually and emotionally drained by difficult and complicated cases, and learned that there is so much more I still do not know. But that’s the beauty of our field — we are constantly learning to be better physicians for our patients. To trainees and my fellow gastroenterologists in practice, never stop asking questions!
In this issue’s “In Focus,” Dr. Rajan Singh and Dr. Baharak Moshiree describe a practical approach to patients with bloating by evaluating and investigating the pathophysiology and etiology of bloating, such as food intolerances, visceral hypersensitivity, pelvic floor dysfunction, abdominophrenic dyssynergia, gut dysmotility, and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, as well as treatment management. In the “Short Clinical Review” section, Dr. Ahmad Bazarbashi and his colleagues review when to refer complex polyps to an advanced endoscopist and the different techniques of advanced tissue resection, including endoscopic mucosal resection, endoscopic submucosal dissection, submucosal tunneling endoscopic resection, and full thickness resection.
Locum practices have become more popular among gastroenterologists. Dr. Catherine Bartholomew is a retired professor of medicine who was chief of gastroenterology at an academic institution, and is now working as a GI locum after retirement. She details what a locum tenens is, the role of the company, being an independent contractor, and the benefits.
Navigating and negotiating maternity and paternity leave may be challenging in private practice. Dr. Marybeth Spanarkel gives her opinion on the nuances of maternity/paternity leave in private practices, what it may mean financially, and things to inquire of the practice if planning to have children.
As we move from joining non-traditional practices and navigating family planning with private practices, Dr. Vasu Appalaneni shares her experiences with financial planning for retirement. She describes ways to financially plan a retirement, but also to consider aspects that affect financial well-being during retirement, including healthcare coverage, lifestyle and traveling, legal and estate, professional development, and emotional and social support.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]) or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), communications/managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are not without appreciating where we were: The first colonic polypectomy using an electrosurgical snare was performed by Dr. Hiromi Shinya at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City, in 1969.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Defining Your ‘Success’
Dear Friends,
The prevailing theme of this issue is “Success.” I have learned that “success” is personal and personalized. What “success” looked like 10, or even 5, years ago to me is very different from how I perceive it now; and I know it may be different 5 years from now. My definition of success should not look like another’s — that was the best advice I have gotten over the years and it has kept me constantly redefining what is important to me and placing value on where I want to allocate my time and efforts, at work and at home.
This issue of The New Gastroenterologist highlights topics from successful GIs within their own realms of expertise, offering insights on advancing in academic medicine, navigating financial wellness with a financial adviser, and becoming a future leader in GI.
In this issue’s clinically-focused articles, we spotlight two very nuanced and challenging topics. Dr. Sachin Srinivasan and Dr. Prateek Sharma review Barrett’s esophagus management for our “In Focus” section, with a particular emphasis on Barrett’s endoscopic therapy modalities for dysplasia and early neoplasia. Dr. Brooke Corning and team simplify their approach to pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) in our “Short Clinical Reviews.” They suggest validated ways to assess patient history, pros and cons of various diagnostic tests, and stepwise management of PFD.
Navigating academic promotion can be overwhelming and may not be at the forefront with our early career GIs’ priorities. In our “Early Career” section, Dr. Vineet Rolston interviews two highly accomplished professors in academic medicine, Dr. Sophie Balzora and Dr. Mark Schattner, for their insights into the promotion process and recommendations for junior faculty.
Dr. Anjuli K. Luthra, a therapeutic endoscopist and founder of The Scope of Finance, emphasizes financial wellness for physicians. She breaks down the search for a financial adviser, including the different types, what to ask when searching for the right fit, and what to expect.
Lastly, this issue highlights an AGA program that invests in the development of leaders for the field — the Future Leaders Program (FLP). Dr. Parakkal Deepak and Dr. Edward L. Barnes, along with their mentor, Dr. Aasma Shaukat, describe their experience as a mentee-mentor triad of FLP and how this program has impacted their careers.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]), or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: Dr. C.G. Stockton was the first AGA president in 1897, a Professor of the Principles and Practice of Medicine and Clinical Medicine at the University of Buffalo in New York, and published on the relationship between GI/Hepatology and gout in the Journal of the American Medical Association the same year of his presidency.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
The prevailing theme of this issue is “Success.” I have learned that “success” is personal and personalized. What “success” looked like 10, or even 5, years ago to me is very different from how I perceive it now; and I know it may be different 5 years from now. My definition of success should not look like another’s — that was the best advice I have gotten over the years and it has kept me constantly redefining what is important to me and placing value on where I want to allocate my time and efforts, at work and at home.
This issue of The New Gastroenterologist highlights topics from successful GIs within their own realms of expertise, offering insights on advancing in academic medicine, navigating financial wellness with a financial adviser, and becoming a future leader in GI.
In this issue’s clinically-focused articles, we spotlight two very nuanced and challenging topics. Dr. Sachin Srinivasan and Dr. Prateek Sharma review Barrett’s esophagus management for our “In Focus” section, with a particular emphasis on Barrett’s endoscopic therapy modalities for dysplasia and early neoplasia. Dr. Brooke Corning and team simplify their approach to pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) in our “Short Clinical Reviews.” They suggest validated ways to assess patient history, pros and cons of various diagnostic tests, and stepwise management of PFD.
Navigating academic promotion can be overwhelming and may not be at the forefront with our early career GIs’ priorities. In our “Early Career” section, Dr. Vineet Rolston interviews two highly accomplished professors in academic medicine, Dr. Sophie Balzora and Dr. Mark Schattner, for their insights into the promotion process and recommendations for junior faculty.
Dr. Anjuli K. Luthra, a therapeutic endoscopist and founder of The Scope of Finance, emphasizes financial wellness for physicians. She breaks down the search for a financial adviser, including the different types, what to ask when searching for the right fit, and what to expect.
Lastly, this issue highlights an AGA program that invests in the development of leaders for the field — the Future Leaders Program (FLP). Dr. Parakkal Deepak and Dr. Edward L. Barnes, along with their mentor, Dr. Aasma Shaukat, describe their experience as a mentee-mentor triad of FLP and how this program has impacted their careers.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]), or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: Dr. C.G. Stockton was the first AGA president in 1897, a Professor of the Principles and Practice of Medicine and Clinical Medicine at the University of Buffalo in New York, and published on the relationship between GI/Hepatology and gout in the Journal of the American Medical Association the same year of his presidency.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
The prevailing theme of this issue is “Success.” I have learned that “success” is personal and personalized. What “success” looked like 10, or even 5, years ago to me is very different from how I perceive it now; and I know it may be different 5 years from now. My definition of success should not look like another’s — that was the best advice I have gotten over the years and it has kept me constantly redefining what is important to me and placing value on where I want to allocate my time and efforts, at work and at home.
This issue of The New Gastroenterologist highlights topics from successful GIs within their own realms of expertise, offering insights on advancing in academic medicine, navigating financial wellness with a financial adviser, and becoming a future leader in GI.
In this issue’s clinically-focused articles, we spotlight two very nuanced and challenging topics. Dr. Sachin Srinivasan and Dr. Prateek Sharma review Barrett’s esophagus management for our “In Focus” section, with a particular emphasis on Barrett’s endoscopic therapy modalities for dysplasia and early neoplasia. Dr. Brooke Corning and team simplify their approach to pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) in our “Short Clinical Reviews.” They suggest validated ways to assess patient history, pros and cons of various diagnostic tests, and stepwise management of PFD.
Navigating academic promotion can be overwhelming and may not be at the forefront with our early career GIs’ priorities. In our “Early Career” section, Dr. Vineet Rolston interviews two highly accomplished professors in academic medicine, Dr. Sophie Balzora and Dr. Mark Schattner, for their insights into the promotion process and recommendations for junior faculty.
Dr. Anjuli K. Luthra, a therapeutic endoscopist and founder of The Scope of Finance, emphasizes financial wellness for physicians. She breaks down the search for a financial adviser, including the different types, what to ask when searching for the right fit, and what to expect.
Lastly, this issue highlights an AGA program that invests in the development of leaders for the field — the Future Leaders Program (FLP). Dr. Parakkal Deepak and Dr. Edward L. Barnes, along with their mentor, Dr. Aasma Shaukat, describe their experience as a mentee-mentor triad of FLP and how this program has impacted their careers.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]), or Danielle Kiefer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: Dr. C.G. Stockton was the first AGA president in 1897, a Professor of the Principles and Practice of Medicine and Clinical Medicine at the University of Buffalo in New York, and published on the relationship between GI/Hepatology and gout in the Journal of the American Medical Association the same year of his presidency.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Working together
Dear Friends,
After 6 months in my first faculty position, I have come to appreciate the term “multidisciplinary approach” more than ever. Not only does this facilitate optimal patient care, but I have personally learned so much from experts in other fields. This theme resonates across this issue of The New Gastroenterologist, from treating complex gallbladder disease, to caring for sexual and gender minorities, and collaborating with the tech industry to advance patient care.
Our “In Focus” feature, written by Dr. Andrew Gilman and Dr. Todd Baron, is on endoscopic management of gallbladder disease. They review endoscopic treatment options in patients with benign gallbladder disease, with emphasis on working with surgical and interventional radiology colleagues, as well as relaying endoscopic tips and techniques to achieve success in these complicated procedures.
In the “Short Clinical Reviews” section, Dr. David Chiang and Dr. Victor Chedid highlight the gaps in research and clinical care and competency for sexual and gender minorities, particularly in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. They describe the creation of the Pride in IBD clinic at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., that creates a culturally sensitive space to care for this community.
As trainees transition to early faculty, becoming a mentor is a new role that can be very rewarding and daunting at the same time. Dr. Anna Lok, recipient of the AGA’s Distinguished Mentor Award, and Dr. Vincent Chen share invaluable experiences and advice on being a mentor from senior and early-career perspectives, respectively. Similarly in the transition to early faculty, Erin Anderson, CPA, answers five common financial questions that arise to better understand and manage a significant increase in salary.
Lastly, Dr. Shifa Umar describes her unique experience as part of the AGA’s annual Tech Summit Fellows Program, a cross-section of medicine, technology, and innovation.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]), or Jillian Schweitzer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: The concept of the clinicopathologic conference (CPC) was introduced by Dr. Walter B. Cannon as a medical student at Harvard Medical School.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
After 6 months in my first faculty position, I have come to appreciate the term “multidisciplinary approach” more than ever. Not only does this facilitate optimal patient care, but I have personally learned so much from experts in other fields. This theme resonates across this issue of The New Gastroenterologist, from treating complex gallbladder disease, to caring for sexual and gender minorities, and collaborating with the tech industry to advance patient care.
Our “In Focus” feature, written by Dr. Andrew Gilman and Dr. Todd Baron, is on endoscopic management of gallbladder disease. They review endoscopic treatment options in patients with benign gallbladder disease, with emphasis on working with surgical and interventional radiology colleagues, as well as relaying endoscopic tips and techniques to achieve success in these complicated procedures.
In the “Short Clinical Reviews” section, Dr. David Chiang and Dr. Victor Chedid highlight the gaps in research and clinical care and competency for sexual and gender minorities, particularly in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. They describe the creation of the Pride in IBD clinic at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., that creates a culturally sensitive space to care for this community.
As trainees transition to early faculty, becoming a mentor is a new role that can be very rewarding and daunting at the same time. Dr. Anna Lok, recipient of the AGA’s Distinguished Mentor Award, and Dr. Vincent Chen share invaluable experiences and advice on being a mentor from senior and early-career perspectives, respectively. Similarly in the transition to early faculty, Erin Anderson, CPA, answers five common financial questions that arise to better understand and manage a significant increase in salary.
Lastly, Dr. Shifa Umar describes her unique experience as part of the AGA’s annual Tech Summit Fellows Program, a cross-section of medicine, technology, and innovation.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]), or Jillian Schweitzer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: The concept of the clinicopathologic conference (CPC) was introduced by Dr. Walter B. Cannon as a medical student at Harvard Medical School.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
After 6 months in my first faculty position, I have come to appreciate the term “multidisciplinary approach” more than ever. Not only does this facilitate optimal patient care, but I have personally learned so much from experts in other fields. This theme resonates across this issue of The New Gastroenterologist, from treating complex gallbladder disease, to caring for sexual and gender minorities, and collaborating with the tech industry to advance patient care.
Our “In Focus” feature, written by Dr. Andrew Gilman and Dr. Todd Baron, is on endoscopic management of gallbladder disease. They review endoscopic treatment options in patients with benign gallbladder disease, with emphasis on working with surgical and interventional radiology colleagues, as well as relaying endoscopic tips and techniques to achieve success in these complicated procedures.
In the “Short Clinical Reviews” section, Dr. David Chiang and Dr. Victor Chedid highlight the gaps in research and clinical care and competency for sexual and gender minorities, particularly in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. They describe the creation of the Pride in IBD clinic at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., that creates a culturally sensitive space to care for this community.
As trainees transition to early faculty, becoming a mentor is a new role that can be very rewarding and daunting at the same time. Dr. Anna Lok, recipient of the AGA’s Distinguished Mentor Award, and Dr. Vincent Chen share invaluable experiences and advice on being a mentor from senior and early-career perspectives, respectively. Similarly in the transition to early faculty, Erin Anderson, CPA, answers five common financial questions that arise to better understand and manage a significant increase in salary.
Lastly, Dr. Shifa Umar describes her unique experience as part of the AGA’s annual Tech Summit Fellows Program, a cross-section of medicine, technology, and innovation.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]), or Jillian Schweitzer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: The concept of the clinicopathologic conference (CPC) was introduced by Dr. Walter B. Cannon as a medical student at Harvard Medical School.
Yours truly,
Judy A. Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Making an impact beyond medicine
across all career stages and practice settings, highlight the diversity of our membership, and build a sense of community by learning more about one another.
As physicians, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to meaningfully impact the lives of our patients through the practice of clinical medicine, or by spearheading groundbreaking research that improves patient outcomes. However, some physicians arguably make their greatest mark outside of medicine.
To close out the inaugural year of our Member Spotlight feature, we introduce you to gastroenterologist Eric Esrailian, MD, MPH, chair of the division of gastroenterology at UCLA. He is an Emmy-nominated film producer and distinguished human rights advocate. His story is inspirational, and poignantly highlights how one’s impact as a physician can extend far beyond the walls of the hospital. We hope to continue to feature exceptional individuals like Dr. Esrailian who leverage their unique talents for societal good. We appreciate your continued nominations as we plan our 2024 coverage.
Also in the December issue, we summarize the results of a pivotal, head-to-head trial of risankizumab (Skyrizi) and ustekinumab (Stelara) for Crohn’s disease, which was presented in October at United European Gastroenterology (UEG) Week in Copenhagen.
We also highlight the FDA’s recent approval of vonoprazan, a new pharmacologic treatment for erosive esophagitis expected to be available in the U.S. sometime this month. Finally, Dr. Lauren Feld explains how gastroenterologists can advocate for more robust parental leave and return to work policies at their institutions and why it matters.
We wish you all a wonderful holiday season and look forward to seeing you again in the New Year.
Megan A. Adams, MD, JD, MSc
across all career stages and practice settings, highlight the diversity of our membership, and build a sense of community by learning more about one another.
As physicians, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to meaningfully impact the lives of our patients through the practice of clinical medicine, or by spearheading groundbreaking research that improves patient outcomes. However, some physicians arguably make their greatest mark outside of medicine.
To close out the inaugural year of our Member Spotlight feature, we introduce you to gastroenterologist Eric Esrailian, MD, MPH, chair of the division of gastroenterology at UCLA. He is an Emmy-nominated film producer and distinguished human rights advocate. His story is inspirational, and poignantly highlights how one’s impact as a physician can extend far beyond the walls of the hospital. We hope to continue to feature exceptional individuals like Dr. Esrailian who leverage their unique talents for societal good. We appreciate your continued nominations as we plan our 2024 coverage.
Also in the December issue, we summarize the results of a pivotal, head-to-head trial of risankizumab (Skyrizi) and ustekinumab (Stelara) for Crohn’s disease, which was presented in October at United European Gastroenterology (UEG) Week in Copenhagen.
We also highlight the FDA’s recent approval of vonoprazan, a new pharmacologic treatment for erosive esophagitis expected to be available in the U.S. sometime this month. Finally, Dr. Lauren Feld explains how gastroenterologists can advocate for more robust parental leave and return to work policies at their institutions and why it matters.
We wish you all a wonderful holiday season and look forward to seeing you again in the New Year.
Megan A. Adams, MD, JD, MSc
across all career stages and practice settings, highlight the diversity of our membership, and build a sense of community by learning more about one another.
As physicians, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to meaningfully impact the lives of our patients through the practice of clinical medicine, or by spearheading groundbreaking research that improves patient outcomes. However, some physicians arguably make their greatest mark outside of medicine.
To close out the inaugural year of our Member Spotlight feature, we introduce you to gastroenterologist Eric Esrailian, MD, MPH, chair of the division of gastroenterology at UCLA. He is an Emmy-nominated film producer and distinguished human rights advocate. His story is inspirational, and poignantly highlights how one’s impact as a physician can extend far beyond the walls of the hospital. We hope to continue to feature exceptional individuals like Dr. Esrailian who leverage their unique talents for societal good. We appreciate your continued nominations as we plan our 2024 coverage.
Also in the December issue, we summarize the results of a pivotal, head-to-head trial of risankizumab (Skyrizi) and ustekinumab (Stelara) for Crohn’s disease, which was presented in October at United European Gastroenterology (UEG) Week in Copenhagen.
We also highlight the FDA’s recent approval of vonoprazan, a new pharmacologic treatment for erosive esophagitis expected to be available in the U.S. sometime this month. Finally, Dr. Lauren Feld explains how gastroenterologists can advocate for more robust parental leave and return to work policies at their institutions and why it matters.
We wish you all a wonderful holiday season and look forward to seeing you again in the New Year.
Megan A. Adams, MD, JD, MSc
One-year anniversary
Dear Friends,
It’s been a year since I have become editor-in-chief of The New Gastroenterologist and I am so grateful for our readers and contributors. Thank you for being a part of the TNG family. , including the increasing armamentarium of inflammatory bowel disease treatments, taking on leadership roles in diversity, equity, and inclusion, and tackling financial planning.
In this issue’s In Focus, Drs. Ariela K. Holmer, Shannon Chang, and Lisa Malter break down the factors that contribute to selecting therapies for moderate to severe IBD, such as disease activity and severity, extraintestinal manifestations, safety, prior anti–tumor necrosis factor exposure, perianal disease, and patient preference.
Drs. Michael G. Rubeiz, Kemmian D. Johnson, and Juan Reyes Genere continue our journey with IBD in the Short Clinical Review section, describing advances in endoscopic therapies in IBD. They review the resection of colitis dysplasia and management of luminal strictures with dilation and stricturotomy.
Early-career faculty are being requested to spearhead diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts at their institutions or for their groups. Drs. Cassandra D.L. Fritz and Nicolette Juliana Rodriguez highlight important aspects that should be considered prior to taking on DEI roles.
In the Finance section, Dr. Animesh Jain answers five common questions for young gastroenterologists. He addresses student loans, disability insurance, life insurance, retirement, and buying a first house.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]), or Jillian Schweitzer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: The first biologic therapy for IBD, infliximab, was only approved 25 years ago in 1998.
Yours truly,
Judy A Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
It’s been a year since I have become editor-in-chief of The New Gastroenterologist and I am so grateful for our readers and contributors. Thank you for being a part of the TNG family. , including the increasing armamentarium of inflammatory bowel disease treatments, taking on leadership roles in diversity, equity, and inclusion, and tackling financial planning.
In this issue’s In Focus, Drs. Ariela K. Holmer, Shannon Chang, and Lisa Malter break down the factors that contribute to selecting therapies for moderate to severe IBD, such as disease activity and severity, extraintestinal manifestations, safety, prior anti–tumor necrosis factor exposure, perianal disease, and patient preference.
Drs. Michael G. Rubeiz, Kemmian D. Johnson, and Juan Reyes Genere continue our journey with IBD in the Short Clinical Review section, describing advances in endoscopic therapies in IBD. They review the resection of colitis dysplasia and management of luminal strictures with dilation and stricturotomy.
Early-career faculty are being requested to spearhead diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts at their institutions or for their groups. Drs. Cassandra D.L. Fritz and Nicolette Juliana Rodriguez highlight important aspects that should be considered prior to taking on DEI roles.
In the Finance section, Dr. Animesh Jain answers five common questions for young gastroenterologists. He addresses student loans, disability insurance, life insurance, retirement, and buying a first house.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]), or Jillian Schweitzer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: The first biologic therapy for IBD, infliximab, was only approved 25 years ago in 1998.
Yours truly,
Judy A Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Dear Friends,
It’s been a year since I have become editor-in-chief of The New Gastroenterologist and I am so grateful for our readers and contributors. Thank you for being a part of the TNG family. , including the increasing armamentarium of inflammatory bowel disease treatments, taking on leadership roles in diversity, equity, and inclusion, and tackling financial planning.
In this issue’s In Focus, Drs. Ariela K. Holmer, Shannon Chang, and Lisa Malter break down the factors that contribute to selecting therapies for moderate to severe IBD, such as disease activity and severity, extraintestinal manifestations, safety, prior anti–tumor necrosis factor exposure, perianal disease, and patient preference.
Drs. Michael G. Rubeiz, Kemmian D. Johnson, and Juan Reyes Genere continue our journey with IBD in the Short Clinical Review section, describing advances in endoscopic therapies in IBD. They review the resection of colitis dysplasia and management of luminal strictures with dilation and stricturotomy.
Early-career faculty are being requested to spearhead diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts at their institutions or for their groups. Drs. Cassandra D.L. Fritz and Nicolette Juliana Rodriguez highlight important aspects that should be considered prior to taking on DEI roles.
In the Finance section, Dr. Animesh Jain answers five common questions for young gastroenterologists. He addresses student loans, disability insurance, life insurance, retirement, and buying a first house.
If you are interested in contributing or have ideas for future TNG topics, please contact me ([email protected]), or Jillian Schweitzer ([email protected]), managing editor of TNG.
Until next time, I leave you with a historical fun fact because we would not be where we are now without appreciating where we were: The first biologic therapy for IBD, infliximab, was only approved 25 years ago in 1998.
Yours truly,
Judy A Trieu, MD, MPH
Editor-in-Chief
Interventional Endoscopy, Division of Gastroenterology
Washington University in St. Louis
Addressing supply-demand mismatch in GI
Impacts of this supply-demand mismatch are felt daily in our GI practices as we strive to expand access in our clinics and endoscopy suites, particularly in rural and urban underserved communities. In gastroenterology, increased demand for care has been driven by a perfect storm of population growth, increased patient awareness of GI health, and rising incidence of digestive diseases.
Between 2019 and 2034, the U.S. population is expected to grow by 10.6%, while the population aged 65 and older expands by over 42%. Recent increases in the CRC screening–eligible population also have contributed to unprecedented demand for GI care. Furthermore, care delivery has become more complex and time-consuming with the evolution of personalized medicine and high prevalence of comorbid conditions. At the same time, we are faced with a dwindling supply of gastroenterology providers. In 2021, there were 15,678 practicing gastroenterologists in the U.S., over half of whom were 55 years or older. This translates to 1 gastroenterologist per 20,830 people captured in the U.S. Census.
Addressing this striking supply-demand mismatch in GI requires a multi-pronged approach that addresses its complex drivers. First and foremost, we must expand the number of GI fellowship training slots to boost our pipeline. There are approximately 1,840 GI fellows currently in training, a third of whom enter the workforce each year. While the number of GI fellowship slots in the GI fellowship match has slowly increased over time (from 525 available slots across 199 programs in 2019 to 657 slots across 230 programs in 2023), this incremental growth is dwarfed by overall need. Continued advocacy for increased funding to support expansion of training slots is necessary to further move the needle – such lobbying recently led to the addition of 1,000 new Medicare-supported graduate medical education positions across specialties over a 5-year period starting in 2020, illustrating that change is possible. At the same time, we must address the factors that are causing gastroenterologists to leave the workforce prematurely through early retirement or part-time work by investing in innovative solutions to address burnout, reduce administrative burdens, enhance the efficiency of care delivery, and maintain financial viability. By investing in our physician workforce and its sustainability, we can ensure that our profession is better prepared to meet the needs of our growing and increasingly complex patient population now and in the future.
We hope you enjoy the November issue of GI & Hepatology News and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Megan A. Adams, MD, JD, MSc
Editor-in-Chief
Impacts of this supply-demand mismatch are felt daily in our GI practices as we strive to expand access in our clinics and endoscopy suites, particularly in rural and urban underserved communities. In gastroenterology, increased demand for care has been driven by a perfect storm of population growth, increased patient awareness of GI health, and rising incidence of digestive diseases.
Between 2019 and 2034, the U.S. population is expected to grow by 10.6%, while the population aged 65 and older expands by over 42%. Recent increases in the CRC screening–eligible population also have contributed to unprecedented demand for GI care. Furthermore, care delivery has become more complex and time-consuming with the evolution of personalized medicine and high prevalence of comorbid conditions. At the same time, we are faced with a dwindling supply of gastroenterology providers. In 2021, there were 15,678 practicing gastroenterologists in the U.S., over half of whom were 55 years or older. This translates to 1 gastroenterologist per 20,830 people captured in the U.S. Census.
Addressing this striking supply-demand mismatch in GI requires a multi-pronged approach that addresses its complex drivers. First and foremost, we must expand the number of GI fellowship training slots to boost our pipeline. There are approximately 1,840 GI fellows currently in training, a third of whom enter the workforce each year. While the number of GI fellowship slots in the GI fellowship match has slowly increased over time (from 525 available slots across 199 programs in 2019 to 657 slots across 230 programs in 2023), this incremental growth is dwarfed by overall need. Continued advocacy for increased funding to support expansion of training slots is necessary to further move the needle – such lobbying recently led to the addition of 1,000 new Medicare-supported graduate medical education positions across specialties over a 5-year period starting in 2020, illustrating that change is possible. At the same time, we must address the factors that are causing gastroenterologists to leave the workforce prematurely through early retirement or part-time work by investing in innovative solutions to address burnout, reduce administrative burdens, enhance the efficiency of care delivery, and maintain financial viability. By investing in our physician workforce and its sustainability, we can ensure that our profession is better prepared to meet the needs of our growing and increasingly complex patient population now and in the future.
We hope you enjoy the November issue of GI & Hepatology News and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Megan A. Adams, MD, JD, MSc
Editor-in-Chief
Impacts of this supply-demand mismatch are felt daily in our GI practices as we strive to expand access in our clinics and endoscopy suites, particularly in rural and urban underserved communities. In gastroenterology, increased demand for care has been driven by a perfect storm of population growth, increased patient awareness of GI health, and rising incidence of digestive diseases.
Between 2019 and 2034, the U.S. population is expected to grow by 10.6%, while the population aged 65 and older expands by over 42%. Recent increases in the CRC screening–eligible population also have contributed to unprecedented demand for GI care. Furthermore, care delivery has become more complex and time-consuming with the evolution of personalized medicine and high prevalence of comorbid conditions. At the same time, we are faced with a dwindling supply of gastroenterology providers. In 2021, there were 15,678 practicing gastroenterologists in the U.S., over half of whom were 55 years or older. This translates to 1 gastroenterologist per 20,830 people captured in the U.S. Census.
Addressing this striking supply-demand mismatch in GI requires a multi-pronged approach that addresses its complex drivers. First and foremost, we must expand the number of GI fellowship training slots to boost our pipeline. There are approximately 1,840 GI fellows currently in training, a third of whom enter the workforce each year. While the number of GI fellowship slots in the GI fellowship match has slowly increased over time (from 525 available slots across 199 programs in 2019 to 657 slots across 230 programs in 2023), this incremental growth is dwarfed by overall need. Continued advocacy for increased funding to support expansion of training slots is necessary to further move the needle – such lobbying recently led to the addition of 1,000 new Medicare-supported graduate medical education positions across specialties over a 5-year period starting in 2020, illustrating that change is possible. At the same time, we must address the factors that are causing gastroenterologists to leave the workforce prematurely through early retirement or part-time work by investing in innovative solutions to address burnout, reduce administrative burdens, enhance the efficiency of care delivery, and maintain financial viability. By investing in our physician workforce and its sustainability, we can ensure that our profession is better prepared to meet the needs of our growing and increasingly complex patient population now and in the future.
We hope you enjoy the November issue of GI & Hepatology News and have a wonderful Thanksgiving.
Megan A. Adams, MD, JD, MSc
Editor-in-Chief