Gastroenterology
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Service
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) consists of two main conditions – Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s Disease.
These are chronic diseases of the intestinal tract, experienced by as many as 4 million people worldwide.
Bedford Hospital has three IBD Clinical Nurse Specialists: Sister Mary Hill, Sister Claire Shotbolt and Sister Liz Mitchell who work alongside the Gastroenterology Consultants.
View our patient information leaflet.
Research
We participate in specific IBD research projects and you may be approached to participate.
Services provided
- IBD nurse telephone advice line on 01234 355122 ext 6204 Monday to Friday (excluding Bank Holidays) from 9am to 2pm. This is a non-urgent voicemail – please leave your name, hospital number or date of birth and a brief message. The nurses will aim to return your call within five working days.
- Outpatient and telephone follow up clinics
- IBD Nurse Education Clinic for new patients commencing immunosuppressant treatment
- Paediatric Transition Clinic held jointly with paediatric consultants and nurses for 14-19 year olds
Useful Links
Crohn’s in Childhood Research Association (CICRA)
Staff
Gastroenterology is the medical specialty dealing with diseases of the digestive system.
Our specialist Consultants diagnose and treat diseases and disorders of the stomach, duodenum and small and large bowel (colon). The team also includes two Consultant Hepatologists, who specialise in diseases of the liver.
The L&D Gastroenterology team work closely with colleagues in General Surgery in order to provide seamless care for patients with gastrointestinal cancer and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). We also have close links with Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge for patients requiring tertiary care for liver disease.
The Gastroenterology team work closely with the Nutrition and Dietetics department.
You may be interested in viewing our other Gastroenterology pages:
- Hepatology and liver disease
- Barrett’s Oesophagus
- Coeliac disease
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Patient information and useful links
Outpatient appointment
If you are due to have a video consultation, please read the relevant information.
Our Gastroenterology Consultants
Gastroenterology at the L&D is one of our busiest departments and we have a team of highly-experienced Consultants to ensure that you receive the best possible treatment.