A new website has been launched by healthcare organizations and charities to provide answers and diagnosis for individuals experiencing unexplained gut problems. The What’s Up With My Gut website, introduced in July 2024, aims to assist healthcare professionals in making informed diagnoses and help patients with persistent gut issues understand the root cause of their problems.
Developed by gut-related charities such as Coeliac UK and Crohn’s and Colitis UK, in collaboration with healthcare professional organizations and patients, the website utilizes evidence-based information to enhance the speed and accuracy of diagnosing gut problems.
Heidi Urwin, director of evidence and policy at Coeliac UK, emphasized the importance of reducing stress and uncertainty for both patients and healthcare professionals by providing clear pathways and information on understanding the diagnostic process.
The website offers step-by-step guides for individuals seeking a diagnosis, empowering them to navigate GP appointments effectively and understand potential conditions and tests. Healthcare professionals can also benefit from the website’s guidance on facilitating patient diagnoses and referral processes.
Endorsed by the Royal College of General Practitioners, the website aims to streamline the diagnostic process, minimize variation among healthcare providers, and enhance patients’ overall care experience. By following these pathways, individuals can receive timely diagnoses, while healthcare professionals can make informed decisions and provide appropriate care.
David Sanders, professor of gastroenterology at The University of Sheffield, praised the initiative as a valuable tool for diagnosing conditions like coeliac disease and ensuring comprehensive care for patients with gut issues.
With a focus on improving diagnostic efficiency and patient outcomes, the website includes information on key considerations, recommended investigations, referral protocols, and red flags for potential cancer diagnoses.
