ABSTRACT
Some conditions remain that lend themselves to shared care, but do not fit readily into previous chapter headings. Patients with iron deficiency anaemia present a common gastroenterological problem, as anaemia is often detected during investigation of nonspecific symptoms. Much of the initial evaluation and subsequent care can be managed in the community. On the other hand, patients with coeliac disease or chronic pancreatitis are traditionally reviewed frequently in the gastroenterology outpatient department. Although these disorders are uncommon in the community, they share the common characteristics of variable periods of stability that can be extended if appropriately supervised, but with a potential for serious complications if inappropriately managed. Shared care in these circumstances is entirely appropriate, with the emphasis on good liaison between primary and specialist care.
