Enhancing Biopsychosocial Care for Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction: 10-Year Growth of an Integrated Pediatric Gastroenterology Psychology Program

Objective: Effective treatment for disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs) is furthered by integrated interdisciplinary care. Initial efforts at psychology integration in pediatric gastroenterology (GI) clinics may encounter physician referral variability and low patient utilization as barriers to patient access and program growth. Method: In this brief report, clinical service approaches and educational efforts to address these barriers and enhance biopsychosocial care for pediatric patients with DGBIs are described, including program structure and growth considerations, levels of outpatient care (e.g., group interventions, specialized interdisciplinary clinics) for patients with DGBIs, and innovative physician and patient/family education on biopsychosocial treatment for DGBIs. Results: Over a decade, our established GI Psychology program has grown both in terms of service providers and visit volume to achieve increased access to psychological services and biopsychosocial care for patients with DGBIs and other GI conditions. Conclusions: Recommendations for GI Psychology program growth with financial sustainability are discussed. Implications for Impact StatementGastroenterology (GI) Psychology programs can utilize clinical service expansion and educational efforts to enhance biopsychosocial care for pediatric patients with disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs). A strong partnership between GI Psychology and GI leadership is essential to successful program growth and sustainability. Specific strategies that may reduce barriers to biopsychosocial care for patients with GI conditions include distinct levels of outpatient GI Psychology care, Health and Behavior Assessment and Intervention codes for billing, provision of telehealth services, scheduling access via multiple avenues, and departmental efforts to improve health care equity.