Anthony Starpoli, MD, a gastroenterologist based in New York City, discusses the biggest challenges and opportunities in GI today.
He practices at Greenwich Village Gastroenterology.
Question: What are the biggest challenges you're facing today as a gastroenterologist?
Dr. Anthony Starpoli: Gastroenterologists face the difficult challenge of declining reimbursement and a loss of control because of carrier influences in the marketplace, severe oversight and compliance requirements. We are forced into having to practice high-volume and, often, low-quality medicine. We and physicians alike are also being replaced with paramedical support staff, such as nurse practitioners and physician's assistants.
Q: How has your practice changed over the past three to five years?
AS: I have had a growing interest in obesity medicine as this disease affects all gastrointestinal disease. I recently acquired my boards in obesity medicine (in addition to board certification in internal medicine and gastroenterology) and have added a new array of incisionless procedures for weight loss, such as the swallowable Obalon stomach balloon system.
Q: Where do you see your practice evolving over the next few years? What are your biggest opportunities for growth?
AS: I anticipate less insurance carrier participation and an emerging self-pay model of practice. Patients are faced with high-deductible insurance coverage that has essentially created this self-pay market. I spend more time with patients, and I am having a positive impact on health by addressing the obesity epidemic.