Best Practices in Determining Clinically Meaningful “Response” to Therapy for IBS-C Patients?

In this episode, Kim Orleck, PA-C, discusses key strategies for evaluating treatment response in patients with IBS-C (Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation). With multiple therapeutic options now available, it is essential for providers to take a patient-centered approach to ensure meaningful symptom improvement and treatment satisfaction.

A critical component of effective IBS-C management is setting realistic treatment goals and ensuring that both providers and patients align on expectations. Since bowel symptoms typically improve faster than pain and bloating, clinicians must educate patients on realistic timelines for symptom relief. Additionally, understanding which symptoms are most bothersome allows providers to focus on personalized treatment strategies that target the patient's specific concerns.

Kim Orleck emphasizes the importance of open-ended questioning, as this allows providers to gain deeper insights into the patient's experience rather than relying on simple yes/no answers. Evaluating global symptom relief, including pain, bloating, and overall quality of life, ensures a more comprehensive assessment of treatment success. With more treatment options available than ever before, it is essential that patients feel empowered to explore alternative therapies if their current treatment is not delivering optimal results.

Watch now to learn how to optimize IBS-C treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes. For more resources, visit the GHAPP website or download the GHAPP ACE mobile app on IOS or Android.