2021 GI Outlook (GO) Conference | November 2021-Critical Conversations in GI Practices

Pdf Summary

In this document, Dr. Joseph Vicari discusses critical conversations in gastroenterology practices. The main topics covered include the value of colonoscopy (VOC), physician burnout, and succession planning. <br /><br />Regarding the value of colonoscopy, Dr. Vicari emphasizes the importance of understanding the literature and educating both primary doctors and patients. He suggests using various resources, such as websites, guidelines, video interviews, and in-office presentations, to promote the VOC. Specific strategies for educating primary care physicians include sharing guidelines, starting the process in office visits, and providing video patient testimonials. Educating patients involves providing fact sheets, referring them to the ASGE website, and sharing patient testimonials and tips.<br /><br />To promote the VOC among primary care physicians and patients, Dr. Vicari suggests distributing fact sheets, conducting grand rounds and in-office presentations, and engaging in discussions with patients during clinic visits. He also recommends using editorial local newspaper and social media to spread awareness. <br /><br />Dr. Vicari discusses his experience with the VOC campaign at Rockford Gastroenterology Associates (RGA) and highlights the impact of the pandemic on their efforts. He then transitions to the topic of physician burnout, explaining that it is characterized by emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion that can negatively affect patient care. He cites statistics from Medscape and mentions unique aspects of GI that contribute to burnout, such as financial pressure, adverse events, and lack of confidence in procedure skills. Despite these challenges, he suggests personal and institutional interventions to foster well-being and resilience, such as setting boundaries, taking time off, finding value in the job, and gaining control of scheduling.<br /><br />Lastly, Dr. Vicari delves into succession planning and highlights its importance in ensuring successful operations and management over time. He emphasizes the need for organizations to be proactive, start early in identifying future leaders, and maintain clarity in the organization's vision. He discusses important personal characteristics for leaders, such as integrity, communication skills, compromise, and the ability to put patients first. The document concludes with the importance of education, mentoring, and the peaceful transition of leadership.<br /><br />Overall, the document provides insights and recommendations on critical conversations related to the value of colonoscopy, physician burnout, and succession planning in gastroenterology practices.

Asset Subtitle

Joseph J. Vicari, MD, MBA, FASGE

Keywords

critical conversations

gastroenterology practices

value of colonoscopy

physician burnout

succession planning

patient education

VOC promotion

primary care physicians

patient testimonials

leadership characteristics