What to Expect During Your IBD Visit

What should I expect during my child's first IBD visit?

Please plan on being in the clinic for about 2-3 hours. During this visit, you and your child will be seen by all of the following (feel free to ask them any questions you have):

• One of our pediatric gastroenterologists: This doctor is in clinic to give you and your child the highest level of care possible. The doctor will go over your child's IBD diagnosis and any recent scope/test results, discuss the treatment plan, and go over any treatment options.

• One of our nurse practitioners: Our nurse practitioner will conduct a physical examination of your child, review your child's current list of medication and provide any needed education regarding medication. 

• Psychologist: IBD and its treatment can be overwhelming for many children and families, so our psychologist will monitor how you and your child are doing and provide support in coping/adjusting to IBD. You and your child will fill out some forms about your child's overall emotional and behavioral functioning and our psychologist will review these and address any concerns you might have.

• Dietitian: One of the dietitians will see you and your child during your visit. They work with the team and specialize in nutrition and diet among children and adolescents with IBD. They will be monitoring your child's growth and weight. If needed, they will also provide education on any special diets as well as tips and strategies on ways to gain weight.

• Social Worker: Because IBD can impact various areas of you or your child's life, including school attendance, school performance, work schedules, transportation, and finances, our social worker will be available to talk with your family about these issues and address these as needed.

One of our nurse coordinators: Nurse coordinators are available in clinic to provide patients and families with extra support and additional education regarding IBD, and information on research opportunities. 

What should I bring to my child's visit?

Please bring your child's immunization records to your visit, and a list of medications your child has been taking. We also encourage you to bring reading material or homework to make the most of your downtime.

How often will my child need to be seen by the IBD team?

Your child will be seen by the multidisciplinary IBD team within the first month of initial IBD diagnosis.

Note: Your child will continue to see his/her regular gastroenterologist every 3 to 6 months and has the option to see individual IBD team members (e.g., dietician, psychologist, pharmacist, social worker) as needed.

Is a visit with the IBD team optional?

This approach is our new standard of care for all our patients with IBD. Visits with the IBD team allow us to provide your child with the highest and most comprehensive level of care that focuses not just on your child's IBD, but your child's nutritional status, social, academic, and emotional/behavioral functioning as well. Your child will receive the most individualized level of care, and will have a team of providers who are dedicated fully to making sure that your child is happy, healthy, and getting the best care possible.