Bridging Gaps in IBD Care: Perspectives from a LMIC Clinical Leader - A Conversation with Prof. Dr. Tarkan Karakan

Dear ECCO Family,

In this interview, I had the pleasure of speaking with Professor Tarkan Karakan, an experienced clinician working in inflammatory bowel disease in a low- and middle-income country setting. Our conversation explored the practical realities of diagnosing and managing IBD, including limited healthcare resources, access to advanced therapies, and diagnostic infrastructure.
Prof. Karakan shared valuable perspectives on the everyday challenges clinicians face in these environments and the pragmatic adaptations that help maintain high-quality patient care. We also discussed how international collaboration and guidance from organizations such as the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation can support clinicians globally and help translate consensus recommendations into meaningful improvements in local practice.
This discussion highlights the importance of sharing real-world experiences across diverse healthcare systems and underscores how global dialogue can help narrow gaps in IBD care.
I hope you enjoy watching this conversation as much as I enjoyed recording it.

Best regards,
Jalpa Devi