A career in inflammatory bowel disease promises to be challenging, exciting, at times frustrating, and always educational. We asked our expert faculty at the inaugural Crohn’s & Colitis Congress, which took place Jan. 18-20 in Las Vegas, to reflect on why a career in IBD is an excellent path to take.
Why pursue a career in IBD
1. “IBD is the fastest moving area of GI to integrate science (genomics, microbiome, immunology) into care that will change the natural history of disease. The physicians and scientists have an unusually collegial culture, and the patients really care.” – Jonathan G. Braun, MD, PhD
2. “Managing patients with IBD is becoming ever more complex. When patients move beyond having mild disease, complex decisions need to be made. Choosing the right medication at the right time for the right patient will lead to the best outcomes for patients with IBD. I have every reason to believe that specializing in the clinical care of patients with IBD will be intellectually challenging while offering great personal satisfaction in taking care of these ill patients.” – Francis A. Farraye, MD, MSc
3. “IBD research findings and the implications for patient care are evolving rapidly. Many recommendations that we made 5-10 years ago have changed as we are learning more about IBD every day. There are so many opportunities to participate in the expansion of that knowledge base and help us reach our goal of a cure for IBD in the lifetime of many of our patients. Take the challenge.” – Teri Lynn Jackson, MSN, ARNP
4. “IBD is an outstanding field led by great people who want to see fellows and junior faculty succeed. Identify a mentor and listen to them, meet and engage with new people, be curious, think big, and work hard!” – Michael J. Rosen, MD, MSCI
5. “The best career in the world! Such variety. A home for everyone with any interest. It won’t always be smooth, but it will be incredibly rewarding with hardly a dull moment.” – Dermot McGovern, MD, PhD, FRCP
For additional tips and advice, visit the AGA Community.
