How to Find an IBS Doctor ?

Do you know or suspect that you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and need some help as to how to find a doctor? Finding the right person is important, as research suggests that a good doctor/patient relationship can result in a more positive treatment outcome. Certainly personal recommendations, particularly from health professionals that you trust, are the best option for finding a qualified professional. However, sometimes that type of personal referral is not available to you. Or perhaps, you have heard about a wonderful doctor through word of mouth but you would like to find out more about them before you set up an appointment. The following web sites offer information that may help you to make a good match:




GI Care

UCompareHealthCare

This About.com health service provides free reports on physicians in your community. If you do not already have a primary care physician, you could start by choosing "Internal Medicine" on the Specialty drop-down menu. If you already have a doctor, but are looking for specialized digestive care in the form of a gastroenterologist, you would choose "Gastroenterology" from the drop-down menu.



The American College of Gastroenterology (ACG)

The ACG is an organization of health care professionals who specialize in working with digestive disorders. Their Physician Locator Link will give you the names of ACG member physicians who practice in your geographical area (U.S. and Canada only).



International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD)

The IFFGD maintains a database of professionals who have experience working with patients who suffer from functional gastrointestinal disorders such as IBS. Click here to contact the helpful staff with your request.



Mind Body Treatment

Two forms of psychotherapy have been shown to be effective in alleviating IBS symptoms, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and hypnotherapy. The following resources can help you to find a qualified practitioner:



Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT)

ABCT is an association for therapists who utilize cognitive and behavioral therapy techniques. Therapists who belong to ABCT may not have specific knowledge of IBS, but should have the appropriate training to apply CBT techniques to your symptoms. To find an ABCT member in your area, click the Find a Therapist link.



Hypnosis Treatment Protocol

Dr. Olaf Palsson, an IBS expert associated with the University of North Carolina has put together a research-proven seven session hypnosis treatment. To take advantage of this option, click on Dr. Palsson's site for a list of qualified practitioners (U.S. only).