Erica Brenner, MD: Returning to Normal in Gastroenterology

While existing patients have been able to transition to telemedicine without much irruptions in services, it has proven to be a challenge to screen and diagnose new patients.

In an interview with HCPLive®, Erica Brenner, MD, Pediatric Gastroenterology, University of North Carolina, said there is concern over how many patients have gone undiagnosed with gastroenterological diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in 2020.

Brenner explained why it was important for doctors and researchers to consistently update the community and patients on guidelines and best practices regarding safety in order to maintain health care services without sacrificing much.

Brenner said initially patients were worried about being able to safely visit their doctors, but there have been enough time for facilities to implement proper safety and sanitation measures.

She also said doctors can continue to utilize telehealth to limit waiting room crowds.

However, there could be a backlog of missed appointments, making screening measures essential in the coming months.

In part 3 of the interview with Brenner, she discusses those concerns, as well as what is the most important thing to look for in the coming months in regard to gastroenterology patients and COVID-19.