Competence Network IBD

In Germany, based on an initiative of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, the “Competence Network IBD” was established in 1999 to concentrate and further develop the scientific initiatives of various universities in the field of research in inflammatory bowel diseases. In addition to this horizontal networking, the “Competence Network IBD” also managed to implement and vitalize vertical networking between medical practitioners in clinics and practices. Apart from these research initiatives, other important tasks included the implementation of advanced IBD courses for doctors as well as the establishment of an IBD-specific qualification for medical assistants. Moreover, the “Competence Network IBD” successfully contributed to the development of guidelines on IBD in Germany. Currently, the “Competence Network IBD” is focussing on public relations and, additionally, a study platform, the “German IBD Study Group (GISG)”, was installed this year.