Quality Standards for Irritable Bowel Syndrome are published by NICE

The NICE guidelines offer information for healthcare practitioners on evidence based diagnosis and treatments of IBS. Quality standards offer a benchmark for optimal practice by measuring how well the NICE guidelines for IBS (http://www.nice.org.uk/…/digestive…/irritable-bowel-syndrome) are implemented within the National Health Service. The standards are as follows: http://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/qs114 1. Adults with symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are offered tests for inflammatory markers as first-line investigation to exclude inflammatory causes. 2. Adults with symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are given a positive diagnosis if no red flag indicators are present and investigations identify no other cause of symptoms. 3. Adults with irritable bowel syndrome are offered advice on further dietary management if their symptoms persist after they have followed general lifestyle and dietary advice. 4. Adults with irritable bowel syndrome agree their follow-up with their healthcare professional. The Publication of these quality standards will increased the awareness and understanding of IBS among health care professionals while ensuring that patients are offered proper diagnosis and management and not just dismissed with reassurance. Standards one and two recognise the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment. Standard three will seek to improve access to specialist dietitians, trained in the application of the low FODMAP diet. Standard 4 will facilitate a regular review of your condition, reducing the chances of missing life threatening illness while providing better access to new treatments. The IBS Network welcomes the publication of quality standards for irritable bowel syndrome, which will enhance the management and quality of life of many patients with IBS.