Treat-to-target approach in IBD management may improve doctor-patient relationship

Researchers have proposed that a “treat-to-target” strategy for the management of inflammatory bowel disease may lead to an improved doctor–patient relationship.According to David T. Rubin, MD, FACG, and Noa Krugliak Cleveland, BS, from the University of Chicago Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, the heterogeneity of IBD and the complexity of care for patients with IBD can contribute to a conflict between therapeutic recommendations and patient wishes; thus, preserving the doctor–patient relationship depends on adequate physician communication, respect for patient autonomy and fostering a productive shared decision-making interaction.