Gastroenterology (GI) remains one of the most in-demand specialties in healthcare, driven by an aging population, increased screening recommendations, and rising rates of digestive health conditions. As demand grows, healthcare systems are adapting how and where GI care is delivered.
Today, many gastroenterologists are seeing shifts in practice settings, support models, and call expectations. Hospitals and Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs) are both playing important roles in care delivery, and evolving staffing strategies are helping providers maintain efficiency while managing patient volumes.
Understanding these changes can help GI physicians and advanced practice providers make more informed career decisions while helping facilities ensure consistent patient access.
The Growth of Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs)
Over the past decade, Ambulatory Surgery Centers have become an increasingly common setting for GI procedures. Many routine procedures—such as colonoscopies and endoscopies—are well suited to outpatient environments, making ASCs an efficient option for both patients and providers.
ASCs offer several advantages, including:
- Streamlined procedural workflows
- Lower operational costs compared to hospital settings
- Shorter patient wait times
- Predictable schedules for providers
For many GI physicians, ASC settings can offer a more structured day focused primarily on procedures, often with fewer interruptions than hospital-based practices.
As healthcare systems look for ways to improve efficiency and reduce costs, ASCs will likely continue to expand their role in GI care.
Hospitals Still Play a Critical Role
While ASCs are growing, hospitals remain essential for managing more complex gastrointestinal conditions and emergencies.
Hospital-based gastroenterologists frequently handle cases involving:
- Acute GI bleeding
- Inpatient consults
- Advanced endoscopic procedures
- Patients with complex medical conditions
These settings often require close collaboration with surgical teams, hospitalists, and critical care specialists.
Because hospitals manage a wider range of patient acuity levels, providers working in these environments may experience more varied clinical responsibilities compared to ASC-focused roles.
Evolving Support Models
Another major shift in gastroenterology is the growing use of team-based care models. Many GI practices are integrating Advanced Practice Providers (APPs), including Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants, to help manage patient demand.
APPs often assist with:
- Pre-procedure evaluations
- Post-procedure follow-ups
- Inpatient consults
- Chronic disease management
This collaborative approach allows gastroenterologists to focus more on procedural care and complex cases while ensuring patients receive timely access to evaluation and follow-up care.
For many practices, these support models help improve workflow efficiency and reduce provider burnout.
