TREATMENT AND REFERRAL GUIDELINES IN GASTROENTEROLOGY

Treatment and referral guidelines are an integral part Of clinical pra ctice. There are numerous practice guidelines a available to the clini cian. The recommendations within quality practice guidelines should su mmarize current relevant literature and expert opinion. Practice guide lines should assist the clinician, in providing appropriate, cost-effe ctive care. Guidelines may also be used within health care organizatio ns to facilitate the continued quality improvement process.