Improving Quality and Safety in the Endoscopy Unit (Virtual) | October 2024-ASGE open access endoscopy

ASGE open access endoscopy

Pdf Summary

The document is a guideline issued by the Standards of Practice Committee of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE) regarding open-access endoscopy (OAE). OAE allows for endoscopic procedures to be initiated by referring physicians without prior consultation, especially when the need for such procedures, like colorectal cancer screenings, is already clear. This model helps meet rising demands for endoscopic services efficiently and can reduce costs by eliminating potentially unnecessary office consultations.<br /><br />The guideline acknowledges the increased utilization of OAE over the years and highlights the importance of ensuring that referring physicians are aware of appropriate endoscopy indications. The document stresses that while OAE provides procedural efficiency, it requires collaboration between the referring physician and endoscopy centers to provide pertinent medical information and obtain informed consent.<br /><br />Several relevant issues are addressed in the guideline, including the appropriateness of referrals, patient preparedness, informed consent, diagnostic yield, and follow-up care. The ASGE also highlights challenges such as communication errors and inadequately informed patients but notes that most OAE procedures result in high patient satisfaction and are deemed appropriate. The recommendations suggest that all medical records be thoroughly reviewed, informed consent be obtained on the day of the procedure, and that results be communicated to both the patient and referring provider.<br /><br />The guideline further emphasizes the necessity for endoscopy providers to conduct a pre-procedure assessment and the importance of clear communication following the procedure for effective patient management and safety.<br /><br />Overall, this document serves as an educational resource for endoscopists to ensure quality care while recognizing that individual clinical decisions may diverge from these guidelines based on specific patient situations.

Keywords

open-access endoscopy

ASGE guidelines

colorectal cancer screenings

endoscopic procedures

referring physicians

informed consent

patient satisfaction

pre-procedure assessment

communication errors

diagnostic yield