GPs have central role in managing IBD.

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease are extremely variable in their presentation and course, and treatment can be difficult. It is important that GPs have a high index of suspicion of IBD and initiate appropriate treatment for patients undergoing relapse of the disease. GPs also have a vital role in the monitoring of patients, often in collaboration with gastroenterologists, particularly for those patients on immunosuppressant therapy.