Gastroenterologist

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The role

As a gastroenterologist, you are a specialist doctor who treats the stomach, intestines and all the organs that digest food. You help people with common problems like heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome, but also more serious conditions like Crohn's disease and bowel cancer. Your job is to work out what is wrong, help people feel better, and sometimes save lives.

In clinic, you will talk to patients about their symptoms and examine them. You will often use a camera - a long, thin tube called an endoscope - to look inside their stomach or bowel and see what the problem is. You might take tiny samples to test, or remove polyps that could become cancer. You will work with surgeons, nurses and other doctors to plan the best treatment for each person. You also spend time teaching patients about what is wrong and how to look after themselves - like changing their diet or managing stress. The work is always changing because doctors keep discovering new treatments, so you will read research papers and go to conferences to stay up to date with the newest ideas.

Daily responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive patient assessments and gather medical histories related to gastrointestinal health.
• Perform diagnostic procedures such as endoscopies and colonoscopies to identify conditions.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans based on diagnostic findings.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including surgeons, dieticians, and radiologists, to provide holistic patient care.
• Educate patients about gastrointestinal health, preventive measures, and treatment options.
• Stay updated on the latest research and advancements in gastroenterology to ensure evidence-based practice.
• Manage follow-up care and monitor patients' progress post-treatment.
• Participate in clinical research and trials to contribute to the advancement of gastroenterological care.

Does a degree help here?

A UK degree in medicine provides a robust foundation in clinical skills and patient care, recognised globally for its rigorous training and high standards. Graduates from UK institutions benefit from strong connections within the NHS and a comprehensive understanding of the UK healthcare system, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.