Collaboration between registered dietitians and gastroenterologists in cystic fibrosis care: Results of an international cross-sectional survey.

BACKGROUND

Collaboration between registered dietitians and gastroenterologists has not been evaluated in cystic fibrosis (CF). We surveyed registered dietitians and gastroenterologists regarding the current participation of gastroenterologists in CF centers and identified possible areas to enhance partnership between the two disciplines.

METHODS

An anonymous online survey was distributed targeting registered dietitians and gastroenterologists involved in CF care through three international listservs (CF Nutrition, CF DIGEST, and PEDGI) over a 6-week period. SurveyMonkey was used, and informed consent was obtained.

RESULTS

A total of 131 respondents participated in this survey, including 80 registered dietitians and 51 gastroenterologists (41 pediatric and 10 adult gastroenterologists). Most respondents (82%) were from the United States, and two-thirds had ≥5 years of experience in CF. A significant number of registered dietitians reported the nonavailability of gastroenterologists for collaboration and there was greater availability of gastroenterologists in pediatric centers. Barriers to interdisciplinary collaboration included lack of CF expertise and dedicated time among the gastroenterologists and difficulties in coordinating the gastroenterology clinics. More gastroenterologists than registered dietitians perceived that they worked collaboratively with the other discipline in various domains (clinical care, quality improvement, research, presentations, and publications). Both disciplines had mutual respect and interest to further the collaboration.

CONCLUSION

There is an increased need for gastroenterologist participation and collaboration (particularly in adult centers) in CF alongside registered dietitians to enhance comprehensive patient care. Future efforts should focus on training more gastroenterologists in CF and facilitating easier access to gastroenterologists for the CF population.