Elective procedures certainly took a pause during the height of Covid and resurgence hot spots are still unknown. GI practices have had to weather the storm and continue to do so. As a result of the pandemic-related shutdowns, it's projected there will be a resulting increase in screenings and possibly an increase in colorectal cancer cases as well as other screenings and management of patients with IBD/IBS related disorders. GI management and endoscopic procedures remain challenged because of the potential to spread COVID-19. Alternatives continue to fill the gap left by the pause in screening colonoscopies and other procedures as an example.
This program will provide Ferring Pharmaceutical representatives critical discussions with ASGE expert faculty perspectives on patient interactions and steps forward in 2021. Given the current environment, discussions will include what suggested recommendations to patients are regarding surveillance or after removing serrated polyps. Covid has also elevated the importance of technological innovations transforming the GI and healthcare practice overall. ASGE faculty will share how GI clinicians and their care teams are currently communicating with patients and representatives. 2021 will demonstrate ongoing new and innovative technology and communication tactics to facilitate information sharing. Throughout this program, panel discussions will be encouraged with Ferring Pharmaceutical representatives, answering questions that the faculty can respond, offer clarity or observations on the current environment and its effect on GI Practices. The live event was held January 27, 2021.