News from AGA

A new study published in Neurology found an association between long–term proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) use and dementia. This was an observational study and does not prove that acid reflux drugs cause dementia.

“In this study, the authors note that long-term PPI use, defined as more than 4.5 years of use, was associated with dementia. It is important to note, however, that this does not necessarily mean that PPIs cause dementia. With observational studies, there is an inherent risk of bias and confounding, as the authors report. Some of these confounders include Helicobacter pylori status, vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, depression, and socioeconomic status,” said Fouad J. Moawad, MD, graduate of the AGA FORWARD Program and gastroenterologist at Scripps Health in San Diego. A 2017 study led by Andrew T. Chan, MD, MPH, of Mass General Brigham, Boston, examined the association between proton pump inhibitor use and cognitive function in women. The investigators found no “convincing association between PPI use and cognitive function. Our data do not support the suggestion that PPI use increases dementia risk.”

A new article in press in Gastroenterology by Raaj S. Mehta and colleagues also studied this issue and concluded that in adults 65 years of age or older, PPIs were not associated with dementia or decline in cognition over time. These data provide reassurance about the safety of long-term use of PPIs among older adults.

The headlines may be confusing for patients. Here are AGA’s three talking points for communicating with patients about PPIs:

Talk to your doctor, before making any changes to your medication.

You have been prescribed PPIs for a reason, to treat a diagnosed medical condition. We can discuss the reason for your prescription, the dose and the timeframe for treatment.

Consider lifestyle modifications. 

These may reduce or eliminate the need for PPIs for long-term use. These may include weight loss, avoiding tobacco or a change in your eating patterns. We can work together to determine the changes that are right for you.

Keep in touch.

Research continues to be done on PPI use. Current research recommends that patients who have a diagnosed condition that is helped by PPIs should stay on them, as benefits can outweigh risks.

A new study published in Neurology found an association between long–term proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) use and dementia. This was an observational study and does not prove that acid reflux drugs cause dementia.

“In this study, the authors note that long-term PPI use, defined as more than 4.5 years of use, was associated with dementia. It is important to note, however, that this does not necessarily mean that PPIs cause dementia. With observational studies, there is an inherent risk of bias and confounding, as the authors report. Some of these confounders include Helicobacter pylori status, vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, depression, and socioeconomic status,” said Fouad J. Moawad, MD, graduate of the AGA FORWARD Program and gastroenterologist at Scripps Health in San Diego. A 2017 study led by Andrew T. Chan, MD, MPH, of Mass General Brigham, Boston, examined the association between proton pump inhibitor use and cognitive function in women. The investigators found no “convincing association between PPI use and cognitive function. Our data do not support the suggestion that PPI use increases dementia risk.”

A new article in press in Gastroenterology by Raaj S. Mehta and colleagues also studied this issue and concluded that in adults 65 years of age or older, PPIs were not associated with dementia or decline in cognition over time. These data provide reassurance about the safety of long-term use of PPIs among older adults.

The headlines may be confusing for patients. Here are AGA’s three talking points for communicating with patients about PPIs:

Talk to your doctor, before making any changes to your medication.

You have been prescribed PPIs for a reason, to treat a diagnosed medical condition. We can discuss the reason for your prescription, the dose and the timeframe for treatment.

Consider lifestyle modifications. 

These may reduce or eliminate the need for PPIs for long-term use. These may include weight loss, avoiding tobacco or a change in your eating patterns. We can work together to determine the changes that are right for you.

Keep in touch.

Research continues to be done on PPI use. Current research recommends that patients who have a diagnosed condition that is helped by PPIs should stay on them, as benefits can outweigh risks.

A new study published in Neurology found an association between long–term proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) use and dementia. This was an observational study and does not prove that acid reflux drugs cause dementia.

“In this study, the authors note that long-term PPI use, defined as more than 4.5 years of use, was associated with dementia. It is important to note, however, that this does not necessarily mean that PPIs cause dementia. With observational studies, there is an inherent risk of bias and confounding, as the authors report. Some of these confounders include Helicobacter pylori status, vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, depression, and socioeconomic status,” said Fouad J. Moawad, MD, graduate of the AGA FORWARD Program and gastroenterologist at Scripps Health in San Diego. A 2017 study led by Andrew T. Chan, MD, MPH, of Mass General Brigham, Boston, examined the association between proton pump inhibitor use and cognitive function in women. The investigators found no “convincing association between PPI use and cognitive function. Our data do not support the suggestion that PPI use increases dementia risk.”

A new article in press in Gastroenterology by Raaj S. Mehta and colleagues also studied this issue and concluded that in adults 65 years of age or older, PPIs were not associated with dementia or decline in cognition over time. These data provide reassurance about the safety of long-term use of PPIs among older adults.

The headlines may be confusing for patients. Here are AGA’s three talking points for communicating with patients about PPIs:

Talk to your doctor, before making any changes to your medication.

You have been prescribed PPIs for a reason, to treat a diagnosed medical condition. We can discuss the reason for your prescription, the dose and the timeframe for treatment.

Consider lifestyle modifications. 

These may reduce or eliminate the need for PPIs for long-term use. These may include weight loss, avoiding tobacco or a change in your eating patterns. We can work together to determine the changes that are right for you.

Keep in touch.

Research continues to be done on PPI use. Current research recommends that patients who have a diagnosed condition that is helped by PPIs should stay on them, as benefits can outweigh risks.

The American Gastroenterological Association announced in June that is has invested in Oshi Health, a virtual care integrative health care clinic specializing in treating patients with gastrointestinal disorders that has been named a recipient of funding through the AGA Center for GI Innovation & Technology’s GI Opportunity Fund.

Launched in 2020, Oshi Health works with employers, health insurance partners, health systems, and community GI practices to scale access to multidisciplinary care, reduce health care costs, and help improve outcomes for patients.

Research shows that a whole-person, multidisciplinary GI care model – which for Oshi includes nutrition and diet support, health coaching, behavioral and mental health services – is highly effective in mitigating symptoms. For example, a 2020 literature review published in the Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology documented far more advantages with integrated care models, as compared with the GI specialist model of care. The study found that integrated care teams were better equipped to meet the needs of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), patient outcomes and satisfaction were better, overall direct and indirect costs were lower, and psychological health needs were better addressed.

The AGA Center for GI Innovation and Technology supports innovation and the development of new technology in gastroenterology, hepatology, nutrition, and obesity by guiding medical device and therapeutics innovators through the technology development and adoption process.

For more information about Oshi Health, visit https://oshihealth.com.

The American Gastroenterological Association announced in June that is has invested in Oshi Health, a virtual care integrative health care clinic specializing in treating patients with gastrointestinal disorders that has been named a recipient of funding through the AGA Center for GI Innovation & Technology’s GI Opportunity Fund.

Launched in 2020, Oshi Health works with employers, health insurance partners, health systems, and community GI practices to scale access to multidisciplinary care, reduce health care costs, and help improve outcomes for patients.

Research shows that a whole-person, multidisciplinary GI care model – which for Oshi includes nutrition and diet support, health coaching, behavioral and mental health services – is highly effective in mitigating symptoms. For example, a 2020 literature review published in the Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology documented far more advantages with integrated care models, as compared with the GI specialist model of care. The study found that integrated care teams were better equipped to meet the needs of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), patient outcomes and satisfaction were better, overall direct and indirect costs were lower, and psychological health needs were better addressed.

The AGA Center for GI Innovation and Technology supports innovation and the development of new technology in gastroenterology, hepatology, nutrition, and obesity by guiding medical device and therapeutics innovators through the technology development and adoption process.

For more information about Oshi Health, visit https://oshihealth.com.

The American Gastroenterological Association announced in June that is has invested in Oshi Health, a virtual care integrative health care clinic specializing in treating patients with gastrointestinal disorders that has been named a recipient of funding through the AGA Center for GI Innovation & Technology’s GI Opportunity Fund.

Launched in 2020, Oshi Health works with employers, health insurance partners, health systems, and community GI practices to scale access to multidisciplinary care, reduce health care costs, and help improve outcomes for patients.

Research shows that a whole-person, multidisciplinary GI care model – which for Oshi includes nutrition and diet support, health coaching, behavioral and mental health services – is highly effective in mitigating symptoms. For example, a 2020 literature review published in the Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology documented far more advantages with integrated care models, as compared with the GI specialist model of care. The study found that integrated care teams were better equipped to meet the needs of patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), patient outcomes and satisfaction were better, overall direct and indirect costs were lower, and psychological health needs were better addressed.

The AGA Center for GI Innovation and Technology supports innovation and the development of new technology in gastroenterology, hepatology, nutrition, and obesity by guiding medical device and therapeutics innovators through the technology development and adoption process.

For more information about Oshi Health, visit https://oshihealth.com.

On Aug. 1, AGA president Barbara H. Jung, MD, AGAF, wrote to UnitedHealthcare’s chief medical officer, Rhonda Randall, DO, to express continued concern about the company’s Advance Notification Program for gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures, which took effect June 1, and UnitedHealthcare’s proposed “Gold Card” prior authorization program planned for 2024.

AGA

Dr. Jung made three requests: A request for UnitedHealthcare’s deidentified aggregate data on which the Advance Notification program is based.

She asked for clarification in regards to gastroenterologists who opt not to participate in the Advance Notification program. Will they be automatically subject to prior authorization when UnitedHealthcare implements the 2024 Gold Card program?

And, how will information gathered through the Advance Notification program shape the GI Gold Card prior authorization program that UnitedHealthcare plans to implement in 2024?

Dr. Jung asked for a written response to each of these three issues and a meeting to discuss concerns and questions.

She stated that the Advance Notification Program was launched without adequate communication to gastroenterologists, plus the AGA, the American College of Gastroenterology, and the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy have had questions and concerns that haven’t yet been addressed.

“Despite multiple requests, you have not shared any UnitedHealthcare-specific overuse or variation data on a code-by-code basis that would warrant such a burdensome process. Please share the deidentified aggregate data. Absent data, there is no rationale for such a policy. The Advance Notification program directly contradicts UnitedHealthcare’s publicly stated goals of reducing administrative burden and streamlining access to care – goals we support and encourage you to work toward in the gastroenterological specialty. In contrast, Advance Notification is imposing significant administrative burdens on physician practices, which will negatively impact patient access to timely, medically necessary care,” she wrote.
 

Practice burden

“The chaotic rollout of the new data reporting requirements led to widespread confusion throughout the gastroenterological community and has since forced physicians and staff to spend multiple hours every day completing reporting requirements for data that UnitedHealthcare already has through claims forms. This is a serious drain on gastroenterology practices’ time, staff, and resources – which should be entirely focused on patient care, not reams of paperwork,” Dr. Jung wrote.

AGA members have stated that:

• Most local UHC representatives are unaware of the Advance Notification Program for GI endoscopy program and are unable to advise them regarding concerns or problems.
• Local UHC representatives have no information on the Gold Card program and how it might operate.

Many practices report they have not received any follow-up from UHC requesting additional records via the Advance Notification Program.

Some large GI practices report it takes their staff 5-7 minutes per patient to enter the required data. Others quantify the additional work of participating in the advance notification program as 25%-35% more work than before the program was implemented.

Practices with large UHC volume report having to divert multiple staff to work full-time on UHC accounts.

All practices report that they are required to input/upload the same clinical information as other UHC prior authorizations. Some practices additionally take a screenshot of the statement that the procedure does not require precertification and place it in the patient notes as a precaution in case issues arise in the future.

GI practices that have tried to use the telephone number to report a change in procedure report spending an average of an hour on hold per case.

Dr. Jung said that “given these challenges, many practices are not participating” in the advance notification program.

“AGA is troubled by the serious lack of specific details about the Gold Card prior authorization program to date. With less than 6 months until 2024, UnitedHealthcare has not issued any details about eligibility criteria, participation, or what new prior authorization requirements may be implemented for practices that do not qualify for a Gold Card. We resolutely oppose the implementation of any type of preauthorization requirements for colonoscopies and endoscopies. We are medical practitioners who have years of training and experience treating patients. Our medical decisions are evidence-based, which no prior authorization policy can claim.

“As you recognized when announcing UnitedHealthcare will slash prior authorization requirements by 20% earlier this spring, requiring physicians to apply for and receive preapproval before being able to deliver medically necessary care is not just frustrating – it is disruptive and dangerous for patients’ health. This is particularly true when it comes to performing colonoscopies and endoscopies, which are vital for detecting and monitoring diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer, the second deadliest form of cancer in the United States.

“AGA stands ready to partner with UnitedHealthcare on mutually beneficial educational initiatives to promote appropriate use of endoscopy procedures. However, we reiterate our call for UnitedHealthcare to halt the confusing and burdensome Advance Notification Program – and scrap plans to implement a Gold Card prior authorization program as planned in 2024. Instead, we invite UnitedHealthcare to work collaboratively with us to develop programs that improve quality of care without creating barriers to treatment for patients and unnecessary and inappropriate administrative burdens for physicians. We urge you to stop the Advance Notification and any prior authorization programs impacting GI endoscopy and directly engage with AGA to ensure patients’ continued access to high-value, patient-centered endoscopy care. Please contact Leslie Narramore at [email protected] at your earliest convenience so we can resume our dialogue.”

Dr. Jung closed the letter urging UHC to stop the advance notification program and planned prior authorization programs and instead engage in a dialogue with AGA about the issues.

To read Dr. Jung’s letter in full, see https://shorturl.at/dhjyH.
For updates on the AGA campaign to stop UHC’s prior authorization plans, visit www.gastro.org/StopUHC.

On Aug. 1, AGA president Barbara H. Jung, MD, AGAF, wrote to UnitedHealthcare’s chief medical officer, Rhonda Randall, DO, to express continued concern about the company’s Advance Notification Program for gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures, which took effect June 1, and UnitedHealthcare’s proposed “Gold Card” prior authorization program planned for 2024.

AGA

Dr. Jung made three requests: A request for UnitedHealthcare’s deidentified aggregate data on which the Advance Notification program is based.

She asked for clarification in regards to gastroenterologists who opt not to participate in the Advance Notification program. Will they be automatically subject to prior authorization when UnitedHealthcare implements the 2024 Gold Card program?

And, how will information gathered through the Advance Notification program shape the GI Gold Card prior authorization program that UnitedHealthcare plans to implement in 2024?

Dr. Jung asked for a written response to each of these three issues and a meeting to discuss concerns and questions.

She stated that the Advance Notification Program was launched without adequate communication to gastroenterologists, plus the AGA, the American College of Gastroenterology, and the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy have had questions and concerns that haven’t yet been addressed.

“Despite multiple requests, you have not shared any UnitedHealthcare-specific overuse or variation data on a code-by-code basis that would warrant such a burdensome process. Please share the deidentified aggregate data. Absent data, there is no rationale for such a policy. The Advance Notification program directly contradicts UnitedHealthcare’s publicly stated goals of reducing administrative burden and streamlining access to care – goals we support and encourage you to work toward in the gastroenterological specialty. In contrast, Advance Notification is imposing significant administrative burdens on physician practices, which will negatively impact patient access to timely, medically necessary care,” she wrote.
 

Practice burden

“The chaotic rollout of the new data reporting requirements led to widespread confusion throughout the gastroenterological community and has since forced physicians and staff to spend multiple hours every day completing reporting requirements for data that UnitedHealthcare already has through claims forms. This is a serious drain on gastroenterology practices’ time, staff, and resources – which should be entirely focused on patient care, not reams of paperwork,” Dr. Jung wrote.

AGA members have stated that:

• Most local UHC representatives are unaware of the Advance Notification Program for GI endoscopy program and are unable to advise them regarding concerns or problems.
• Local UHC representatives have no information on the Gold Card program and how it might operate.

Many practices report they have not received any follow-up from UHC requesting additional records via the Advance Notification Program.

Some large GI practices report it takes their staff 5-7 minutes per patient to enter the required data. Others quantify the additional work of participating in the advance notification program as 25%-35% more work than before the program was implemented.

Practices with large UHC volume report having to divert multiple staff to work full-time on UHC accounts.

All practices report that they are required to input/upload the same clinical information as other UHC prior authorizations. Some practices additionally take a screenshot of the statement that the procedure does not require precertification and place it in the patient notes as a precaution in case issues arise in the future.

GI practices that have tried to use the telephone number to report a change in procedure report spending an average of an hour on hold per case.

Dr. Jung said that “given these challenges, many practices are not participating” in the advance notification program.

“AGA is troubled by the serious lack of specific details about the Gold Card prior authorization program to date. With less than 6 months until 2024, UnitedHealthcare has not issued any details about eligibility criteria, participation, or what new prior authorization requirements may be implemented for practices that do not qualify for a Gold Card. We resolutely oppose the implementation of any type of preauthorization requirements for colonoscopies and endoscopies. We are medical practitioners who have years of training and experience treating patients. Our medical decisions are evidence-based, which no prior authorization policy can claim.

“As you recognized when announcing UnitedHealthcare will slash prior authorization requirements by 20% earlier this spring, requiring physicians to apply for and receive preapproval before being able to deliver medically necessary care is not just frustrating – it is disruptive and dangerous for patients’ health. This is particularly true when it comes to performing colonoscopies and endoscopies, which are vital for detecting and monitoring diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer, the second deadliest form of cancer in the United States.

“AGA stands ready to partner with UnitedHealthcare on mutually beneficial educational initiatives to promote appropriate use of endoscopy procedures. However, we reiterate our call for UnitedHealthcare to halt the confusing and burdensome Advance Notification Program – and scrap plans to implement a Gold Card prior authorization program as planned in 2024. Instead, we invite UnitedHealthcare to work collaboratively with us to develop programs that improve quality of care without creating barriers to treatment for patients and unnecessary and inappropriate administrative burdens for physicians. We urge you to stop the Advance Notification and any prior authorization programs impacting GI endoscopy and directly engage with AGA to ensure patients’ continued access to high-value, patient-centered endoscopy care. Please contact Leslie Narramore at [email protected] at your earliest convenience so we can resume our dialogue.”

Dr. Jung closed the letter urging UHC to stop the advance notification program and planned prior authorization programs and instead engage in a dialogue with AGA about the issues.

To read Dr. Jung’s letter in full, see https://shorturl.at/dhjyH.
For updates on the AGA campaign to stop UHC’s prior authorization plans, visit www.gastro.org/StopUHC.

On Aug. 1, AGA president Barbara H. Jung, MD, AGAF, wrote to UnitedHealthcare’s chief medical officer, Rhonda Randall, DO, to express continued concern about the company’s Advance Notification Program for gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures, which took effect June 1, and UnitedHealthcare’s proposed “Gold Card” prior authorization program planned for 2024.

AGA

Dr. Jung made three requests: A request for UnitedHealthcare’s deidentified aggregate data on which the Advance Notification program is based.

She asked for clarification in regards to gastroenterologists who opt not to participate in the Advance Notification program. Will they be automatically subject to prior authorization when UnitedHealthcare implements the 2024 Gold Card program?

And, how will information gathered through the Advance Notification program shape the GI Gold Card prior authorization program that UnitedHealthcare plans to implement in 2024?

Dr. Jung asked for a written response to each of these three issues and a meeting to discuss concerns and questions.

She stated that the Advance Notification Program was launched without adequate communication to gastroenterologists, plus the AGA, the American College of Gastroenterology, and the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy have had questions and concerns that haven’t yet been addressed.

“Despite multiple requests, you have not shared any UnitedHealthcare-specific overuse or variation data on a code-by-code basis that would warrant such a burdensome process. Please share the deidentified aggregate data. Absent data, there is no rationale for such a policy. The Advance Notification program directly contradicts UnitedHealthcare’s publicly stated goals of reducing administrative burden and streamlining access to care – goals we support and encourage you to work toward in the gastroenterological specialty. In contrast, Advance Notification is imposing significant administrative burdens on physician practices, which will negatively impact patient access to timely, medically necessary care,” she wrote.
 

Practice burden

“The chaotic rollout of the new data reporting requirements led to widespread confusion throughout the gastroenterological community and has since forced physicians and staff to spend multiple hours every day completing reporting requirements for data that UnitedHealthcare already has through claims forms. This is a serious drain on gastroenterology practices’ time, staff, and resources – which should be entirely focused on patient care, not reams of paperwork,” Dr. Jung wrote.

AGA members have stated that:

• Most local UHC representatives are unaware of the Advance Notification Program for GI endoscopy program and are unable to advise them regarding concerns or problems.
• Local UHC representatives have no information on the Gold Card program and how it might operate.

Many practices report they have not received any follow-up from UHC requesting additional records via the Advance Notification Program.

Some large GI practices report it takes their staff 5-7 minutes per patient to enter the required data. Others quantify the additional work of participating in the advance notification program as 25%-35% more work than before the program was implemented.

Practices with large UHC volume report having to divert multiple staff to work full-time on UHC accounts.

All practices report that they are required to input/upload the same clinical information as other UHC prior authorizations. Some practices additionally take a screenshot of the statement that the procedure does not require precertification and place it in the patient notes as a precaution in case issues arise in the future.

GI practices that have tried to use the telephone number to report a change in procedure report spending an average of an hour on hold per case.

Dr. Jung said that “given these challenges, many practices are not participating” in the advance notification program.

“AGA is troubled by the serious lack of specific details about the Gold Card prior authorization program to date. With less than 6 months until 2024, UnitedHealthcare has not issued any details about eligibility criteria, participation, or what new prior authorization requirements may be implemented for practices that do not qualify for a Gold Card. We resolutely oppose the implementation of any type of preauthorization requirements for colonoscopies and endoscopies. We are medical practitioners who have years of training and experience treating patients. Our medical decisions are evidence-based, which no prior authorization policy can claim.

“As you recognized when announcing UnitedHealthcare will slash prior authorization requirements by 20% earlier this spring, requiring physicians to apply for and receive preapproval before being able to deliver medically necessary care is not just frustrating – it is disruptive and dangerous for patients’ health. This is particularly true when it comes to performing colonoscopies and endoscopies, which are vital for detecting and monitoring diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer, the second deadliest form of cancer in the United States.

“AGA stands ready to partner with UnitedHealthcare on mutually beneficial educational initiatives to promote appropriate use of endoscopy procedures. However, we reiterate our call for UnitedHealthcare to halt the confusing and burdensome Advance Notification Program – and scrap plans to implement a Gold Card prior authorization program as planned in 2024. Instead, we invite UnitedHealthcare to work collaboratively with us to develop programs that improve quality of care without creating barriers to treatment for patients and unnecessary and inappropriate administrative burdens for physicians. We urge you to stop the Advance Notification and any prior authorization programs impacting GI endoscopy and directly engage with AGA to ensure patients’ continued access to high-value, patient-centered endoscopy care. Please contact Leslie Narramore at [email protected] at your earliest convenience so we can resume our dialogue.”

Dr. Jung closed the letter urging UHC to stop the advance notification program and planned prior authorization programs and instead engage in a dialogue with AGA about the issues.

To read Dr. Jung’s letter in full, see https://shorturl.at/dhjyH.
For updates on the AGA campaign to stop UHC’s prior authorization plans, visit www.gastro.org/StopUHC.

The AGA Research Foundation plays an important role in medical research by providing grants to young scientists at a critical time in their careers. AGA’s flagship award is the Research Scholar Award (RSA), which provides career development support for young investigators in gastroenterology and hepatology research.

The AGA Research Awards program has a significant impact on digestive disease research.

• More than $58 million has been awarded in research grants.
• More than 1,000 scientists have been awarded grants.
• Over the first 30 years of the Research Scholar Awards program, 57% of RSA recipients subsequently received at least one NIH R01 award, with 5 years on average between the RSA and first R01. Collectively, this group of investigators has secured 280 distinct R01 or equivalent awards.

Funded by the generosity of donors, the AGA Research Foundation’s research award program ensures that we are building a community of researchers whose work serves the greater community and benefits patients.

“In order to produce truly innovative work at the forefront of current discoveries, donations to research in GI are essential and cannot be replaced by other funding sources,” states Kathleen Curtius, PhD, MS, 2022 AGA Foundation Research Scholar Award recipient.

Join others in supporting the AGA Research Foundation. You will ensure that young researchers have opportunities to continue their lifesaving work. Your tax-deductible contribution supports the Foundation’s research award program, including the RSA, which ensures that studies are funded, discoveries are made, and patients are treated.

To learn more or to make a contribution, visit www.foundation.gastro.org.

The AGA Research Foundation plays an important role in medical research by providing grants to young scientists at a critical time in their careers. AGA’s flagship award is the Research Scholar Award (RSA), which provides career development support for young investigators in gastroenterology and hepatology research.

The AGA Research Awards program has a significant impact on digestive disease research.

• More than $58 million has been awarded in research grants.
• More than 1,000 scientists have been awarded grants.
• Over the first 30 years of the Research Scholar Awards program, 57% of RSA recipients subsequently received at least one NIH R01 award, with 5 years on average between the RSA and first R01. Collectively, this group of investigators has secured 280 distinct R01 or equivalent awards.

Funded by the generosity of donors, the AGA Research Foundation’s research award program ensures that we are building a community of researchers whose work serves the greater community and benefits patients.

“In order to produce truly innovative work at the forefront of current discoveries, donations to research in GI are essential and cannot be replaced by other funding sources,” states Kathleen Curtius, PhD, MS, 2022 AGA Foundation Research Scholar Award recipient.

Join others in supporting the AGA Research Foundation. You will ensure that young researchers have opportunities to continue their lifesaving work. Your tax-deductible contribution supports the Foundation’s research award program, including the RSA, which ensures that studies are funded, discoveries are made, and patients are treated.

To learn more or to make a contribution, visit www.foundation.gastro.org.

The AGA Research Foundation plays an important role in medical research by providing grants to young scientists at a critical time in their careers. AGA’s flagship award is the Research Scholar Award (RSA), which provides career development support for young investigators in gastroenterology and hepatology research.

The AGA Research Awards program has a significant impact on digestive disease research.

• More than $58 million has been awarded in research grants.
• More than 1,000 scientists have been awarded grants.
• Over the first 30 years of the Research Scholar Awards program, 57% of RSA recipients subsequently received at least one NIH R01 award, with 5 years on average between the RSA and first R01. Collectively, this group of investigators has secured 280 distinct R01 or equivalent awards.

Funded by the generosity of donors, the AGA Research Foundation’s research award program ensures that we are building a community of researchers whose work serves the greater community and benefits patients.

“In order to produce truly innovative work at the forefront of current discoveries, donations to research in GI are essential and cannot be replaced by other funding sources,” states Kathleen Curtius, PhD, MS, 2022 AGA Foundation Research Scholar Award recipient.

Join others in supporting the AGA Research Foundation. You will ensure that young researchers have opportunities to continue their lifesaving work. Your tax-deductible contribution supports the Foundation’s research award program, including the RSA, which ensures that studies are funded, discoveries are made, and patients are treated.

To learn more or to make a contribution, visit www.foundation.gastro.org.

Without help from other funding sources, talented young investigators struggle to continue their research, build their research portfolios, and obtain future federal funding. This leads to promising investigators walking away from GI research frustrated by a lack of support. Investigators in the early stages of their careers are particularly hard hit.

Decades of research have revolutionized the care of many digestive disease patients. These patients, as well as everyone in the GI field – clinicians and researchers alike – have benefited from discoveries made by dedicated investigators, past and present.

Creative young researchers are poised to make groundbreaking discoveries that will shape the future of gastroenterology. Unfortunately, declining government funding for biomedical research puts this potential in jeopardy. We’re at risk of losing an entire generation of researchers if we don’t act now.

To fill this gap, the AGA Research Foundation invites you to support young investigators’ research careers, allowing them to make discoveries that could ultimately improve patient care and even cure diseases.

“We are at the threshold of key research advances that will cure digestive diseases. We have the manpower, we have trained the people, now we need to have the security that they can stay in research and advance these cures,” said Kim Elaine Barrett, PhD, AGAF, AGA legacy society donor and AGA governing board member.

AGA

Without help from other funding sources, talented young investigators struggle to continue their research, build their research portfolios, and obtain future federal funding. This leads to promising investigators walking away from GI research frustrated by a lack of support. Investigators in the early stages of their careers are particularly hard hit.

Decades of research have revolutionized the care of many digestive disease patients. These patients, as well as everyone in the GI field – clinicians and researchers alike – have benefited from discoveries made by dedicated investigators, past and present.

Creative young researchers are poised to make groundbreaking discoveries that will shape the future of gastroenterology. Unfortunately, declining government funding for biomedical research puts this potential in jeopardy. We’re at risk of losing an entire generation of researchers if we don’t act now.

To fill this gap, the AGA Research Foundation invites you to support young investigators’ research careers, allowing them to make discoveries that could ultimately improve patient care and even cure diseases.

“We are at the threshold of key research advances that will cure digestive diseases. We have the manpower, we have trained the people, now we need to have the security that they can stay in research and advance these cures,” said Kim Elaine Barrett, PhD, AGAF, AGA legacy society donor and AGA governing board member.

AGA

Without help from other funding sources, talented young investigators struggle to continue their research, build their research portfolios, and obtain future federal funding. This leads to promising investigators walking away from GI research frustrated by a lack of support. Investigators in the early stages of their careers are particularly hard hit.

Decades of research have revolutionized the care of many digestive disease patients. These patients, as well as everyone in the GI field – clinicians and researchers alike – have benefited from discoveries made by dedicated investigators, past and present.

Creative young researchers are poised to make groundbreaking discoveries that will shape the future of gastroenterology. Unfortunately, declining government funding for biomedical research puts this potential in jeopardy. We’re at risk of losing an entire generation of researchers if we don’t act now.

To fill this gap, the AGA Research Foundation invites you to support young investigators’ research careers, allowing them to make discoveries that could ultimately improve patient care and even cure diseases.

“We are at the threshold of key research advances that will cure digestive diseases. We have the manpower, we have trained the people, now we need to have the security that they can stay in research and advance these cures,” said Kim Elaine Barrett, PhD, AGAF, AGA legacy society donor and AGA governing board member.

AGA

Barbara H. Jung, MD, AGAF, has been inducted as the 118th president of the AGA Institute. She currently serves as the first woman Robert G. Petersdorf professor and chair of internal medicine at the University of Washington, Seattle, and is the fourth woman to lead the American Gastroenterological Association as its president.

Dr. Jung is an international expert in the field of transforming growth factor–beta superfamily signaling in colon cancer and has made significant contributions at AGA prior to becoming president, most recently as a member of the finance and operations committee, chair-elect of the audit committee and vice chair of the AGA Research Foundation.

AGA

Born in Portland, Ore., and raised in Munich, Germany, Dr. Jung’s parents provided unconditional support for her career choice in medicine and nurtured her leadership skills throughout her childhood.

Her academic career began at Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich followed by postdoctoral studies in colon cancer at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center in San Diego and eventually culminating in an internal medicine residency at the University of California, San Diego.

Dr. Jung joined the AGA Governing Board in June 2021 as vice president and served as president-elect prior to assuming the top leadership role. Over her time as an AGA member (which started during fellowship), Dr. Jung has also served on the AGA Audit Committee, AGA Registry Research and Publications Committee, AGA Research Policy Committee, and AGA Innovation and Technology Task Force. In 2017, she co-organized the AGA Academic Skills Workshop to train the next generation of gastroenterologists.

Barbara H. Jung, MD, AGAF, has been inducted as the 118th president of the AGA Institute. She currently serves as the first woman Robert G. Petersdorf professor and chair of internal medicine at the University of Washington, Seattle, and is the fourth woman to lead the American Gastroenterological Association as its president.

Dr. Jung is an international expert in the field of transforming growth factor–beta superfamily signaling in colon cancer and has made significant contributions at AGA prior to becoming president, most recently as a member of the finance and operations committee, chair-elect of the audit committee and vice chair of the AGA Research Foundation.

AGA

Born in Portland, Ore., and raised in Munich, Germany, Dr. Jung’s parents provided unconditional support for her career choice in medicine and nurtured her leadership skills throughout her childhood.

Her academic career began at Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich followed by postdoctoral studies in colon cancer at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center in San Diego and eventually culminating in an internal medicine residency at the University of California, San Diego.

Dr. Jung joined the AGA Governing Board in June 2021 as vice president and served as president-elect prior to assuming the top leadership role. Over her time as an AGA member (which started during fellowship), Dr. Jung has also served on the AGA Audit Committee, AGA Registry Research and Publications Committee, AGA Research Policy Committee, and AGA Innovation and Technology Task Force. In 2017, she co-organized the AGA Academic Skills Workshop to train the next generation of gastroenterologists.

Barbara H. Jung, MD, AGAF, has been inducted as the 118th president of the AGA Institute. She currently serves as the first woman Robert G. Petersdorf professor and chair of internal medicine at the University of Washington, Seattle, and is the fourth woman to lead the American Gastroenterological Association as its president.

Dr. Jung is an international expert in the field of transforming growth factor–beta superfamily signaling in colon cancer and has made significant contributions at AGA prior to becoming president, most recently as a member of the finance and operations committee, chair-elect of the audit committee and vice chair of the AGA Research Foundation.

AGA

Born in Portland, Ore., and raised in Munich, Germany, Dr. Jung’s parents provided unconditional support for her career choice in medicine and nurtured her leadership skills throughout her childhood.

Her academic career began at Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich followed by postdoctoral studies in colon cancer at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center in San Diego and eventually culminating in an internal medicine residency at the University of California, San Diego.

Dr. Jung joined the AGA Governing Board in June 2021 as vice president and served as president-elect prior to assuming the top leadership role. Over her time as an AGA member (which started during fellowship), Dr. Jung has also served on the AGA Audit Committee, AGA Registry Research and Publications Committee, AGA Research Policy Committee, and AGA Innovation and Technology Task Force. In 2017, she co-organized the AGA Academic Skills Workshop to train the next generation of gastroenterologists.

The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) is proud to announce the 71 recipients selected to receive research funding through its annual AGA Research Foundation Awards Program. The program serves as a catalyst for discovery and career growth among the most promising researchers in gastroenterology and hepatology.

“This year’s recipients are determined to make an impact on digestive health care through their research,” said Michael Camilleri, MD, AGAF, chair, AGA Research Foundation. “We are honored to support these talented individuals at a critical stage in their careers and research projects. We look forward to seeing their great accomplishments.”

AGA Institute

Research Scholar Awards

AGA Research Scholar Award

Alexander Nguyen, MD, PhD, The Regent of the University of California, Los Angeles

Jeffrey W. Patterson-Fortin, MD, PhD, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts

Sean Spencer, MD, PhD, Stanford Medicine, California

Ken Y. Hui, MD, PhD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland

AGA-Gastric Cancer Foundation Ben Feinstein Memorial Research Scholar Award in Gastric Cancer

Martina Molgora, PhD, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri

AGA-Takeda Pharmaceuticals Research Scholar Award in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Brooke R. Druliner, PhD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
 

Specialty Awards

AGA-Caroline Craig Augustyn & Damian Augustyn Award in Digestive Cancer

Simon Schwörer, PhD, University of Chicago, Illinois

AGA-R. Robert & Sally Funderburg Research Award in Gastric Cancer

Bryson W. Katona, MD, PhD, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia

AGA-Amgen Fellowship-to-Faculty Transition Award

Cynthia Hsu, MD, PhD, University of California, San Diego

AGA-Bristol Myers Squibb Fellowship-to-Faculty Transition Award

Siyan Cao, MD, PhD, Washington University in St. Louis

Amit Ringel, MD, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts

Pilot Awards

AGA Pilot Research Award In Digestive Disease Health Disparities

Sharad Wadhwani, MD, MPH, University of California, San Francisco

AGA Pilot Research Award in Health Disparities

Enrique Soto Pérez de Celis, MD, PhD, MS, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán

AGA Pilot Research Award

Diana L. Snyder, MD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

Michael Li, MD, MPH, University of California, San Francisco

Patricia Bloom, MD, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Edward Barnes, MD, MPH, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill

AGA-Amgen Pilot Research Award In Digestive Disease Health Disparities

Laura Targownik, MD, MSHS, University of Toronto/Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON

Undergraduate Research Awards

AGA-Aman Armaan Ahmed Family Summer Undergraduate Research Award

Gwyneth Garramone, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, California

Ella McLaren, University of California, San Diego

Nathan Moy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles

Hussein Elfayoumy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland

Isabelle Garcia-Fischer, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts

Lidia Appell, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque

Katherine Burkman, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina

Alexa Boylan, Spelman College, Atlanta, Georgia

AGA-Dr. Harvey Young Education and Development Foundation’s Young Guts Scholar Program

Lucy Zhao, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Cambridge

Andrew Tran, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina

Sohaib Hassan, Rutgers University – Verzi Lab, New Brunswick, New Jersey

Varun Ponnusamy, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor

Daniella Montalvo, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida

Sara Chough, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York

Abstract Awards

Fellow Abstract Awards

David Flores Marin, MD, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts

Jesse Platt, MD, PhD, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston

Devika Gandhi, MD, Loma Linda University, California

Amanda Krause, MD, University of California, San Diego

Cynthia Tsay, MD, Mphil, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland

Suha Abushamma, MD, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio

Md Obaidul Islam, PhD, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida

Sakteesh Gurunathan, MD, New York University School of Medicine, New York

Aaron Yeoh, MD, Stanford Hospital & Clinics, California

Yang Xiao, PhD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

Jacques Gonzales, PhD, MS, Michigan State University, East Lansing

Kai Wang, MD, PhD, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Hoyeol Kim, PhD, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York

Babajide Ojo, PhD, MS, Stanford University, California

AGA Fellow Abstract of the Year Award

Stefania Tocci, PhD, MS, University of Massachusetts, Cambridge

Student Abstract Awards

Pritha Chatterjee, MS, University of California, Riverside

Ela Contreras Panta, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee

Mihir Shah, MD, MBBS, John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, Illinois

Yuhan Fu, DO, Metrohealth Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Raissa Nana Sede Mbakop, MD, Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center, Athens, Georgia

Eleazar Montalvan-Sanchez, MD, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington

Sarang Gupta, MD, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario

Daniel Kim, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Hannah Hrncir, Emory University, Decatur, Georgia

Zarwa Saqib, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario

Ying Zhu, MD, PhD, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Lizeth Cifuentes, MD, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pennsylvania

Sharvani Dhandibhotla, MBBS, MS, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston

Lauren Lynch, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas

AGA Student Abstract of The Year Award

Gabrielle Waclawik, MD, MPH, University of Wisconsin, Madison

AGA Abstract Award for Health Disparities Research

Soyoun Min, PhD, Lerner Research Institute (fellow), Cleveland, Ohio

Xiaobei Zhang, PhD , David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles (fellow)

Matthew Zhao, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles (student)

Hannah Fiske, MD, Brown University/Rhode Island Hospital (student), Providence

AGA-APFED Abstract Award in Eosinophilic GI Diseases

Matthew Buendia, MD, Vanderbilt University Medical Center – Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital, Nashville, Tennessee

Alexandra L. Strauss, MD, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia

Mira Yang, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois

AGA-Moti L. & Kamla Rustgi International Travel Award

Aviv Pudipeddi, MBBS, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia

Dianqin Sun, MBBS, Mmed, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands

The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) is proud to announce the 71 recipients selected to receive research funding through its annual AGA Research Foundation Awards Program. The program serves as a catalyst for discovery and career growth among the most promising researchers in gastroenterology and hepatology.

“This year’s recipients are determined to make an impact on digestive health care through their research,” said Michael Camilleri, MD, AGAF, chair, AGA Research Foundation. “We are honored to support these talented individuals at a critical stage in their careers and research projects. We look forward to seeing their great accomplishments.”

AGA Institute

Research Scholar Awards

AGA Research Scholar Award

Alexander Nguyen, MD, PhD, The Regent of the University of California, Los Angeles

Jeffrey W. Patterson-Fortin, MD, PhD, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts

Sean Spencer, MD, PhD, Stanford Medicine, California

Ken Y. Hui, MD, PhD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland

AGA-Gastric Cancer Foundation Ben Feinstein Memorial Research Scholar Award in Gastric Cancer

Martina Molgora, PhD, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri

AGA-Takeda Pharmaceuticals Research Scholar Award in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Brooke R. Druliner, PhD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
 

Specialty Awards

AGA-Caroline Craig Augustyn & Damian Augustyn Award in Digestive Cancer

Simon Schwörer, PhD, University of Chicago, Illinois

AGA-R. Robert & Sally Funderburg Research Award in Gastric Cancer

Bryson W. Katona, MD, PhD, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia

AGA-Amgen Fellowship-to-Faculty Transition Award

Cynthia Hsu, MD, PhD, University of California, San Diego

AGA-Bristol Myers Squibb Fellowship-to-Faculty Transition Award

Siyan Cao, MD, PhD, Washington University in St. Louis

Amit Ringel, MD, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts

Pilot Awards

AGA Pilot Research Award In Digestive Disease Health Disparities

Sharad Wadhwani, MD, MPH, University of California, San Francisco

AGA Pilot Research Award in Health Disparities

Enrique Soto Pérez de Celis, MD, PhD, MS, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán

AGA Pilot Research Award

Diana L. Snyder, MD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

Michael Li, MD, MPH, University of California, San Francisco

Patricia Bloom, MD, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Edward Barnes, MD, MPH, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill

AGA-Amgen Pilot Research Award In Digestive Disease Health Disparities

Laura Targownik, MD, MSHS, University of Toronto/Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON

Undergraduate Research Awards

AGA-Aman Armaan Ahmed Family Summer Undergraduate Research Award

Gwyneth Garramone, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, California

Ella McLaren, University of California, San Diego

Nathan Moy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles

Hussein Elfayoumy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland

Isabelle Garcia-Fischer, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts

Lidia Appell, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque

Katherine Burkman, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina

Alexa Boylan, Spelman College, Atlanta, Georgia

AGA-Dr. Harvey Young Education and Development Foundation’s Young Guts Scholar Program

Lucy Zhao, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Cambridge

Andrew Tran, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina

Sohaib Hassan, Rutgers University – Verzi Lab, New Brunswick, New Jersey

Varun Ponnusamy, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor

Daniella Montalvo, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida

Sara Chough, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York

Abstract Awards

Fellow Abstract Awards

David Flores Marin, MD, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts

Jesse Platt, MD, PhD, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston

Devika Gandhi, MD, Loma Linda University, California

Amanda Krause, MD, University of California, San Diego

Cynthia Tsay, MD, Mphil, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland

Suha Abushamma, MD, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio

Md Obaidul Islam, PhD, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida

Sakteesh Gurunathan, MD, New York University School of Medicine, New York

Aaron Yeoh, MD, Stanford Hospital & Clinics, California

Yang Xiao, PhD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

Jacques Gonzales, PhD, MS, Michigan State University, East Lansing

Kai Wang, MD, PhD, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Hoyeol Kim, PhD, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York

Babajide Ojo, PhD, MS, Stanford University, California

AGA Fellow Abstract of the Year Award

Stefania Tocci, PhD, MS, University of Massachusetts, Cambridge

Student Abstract Awards

Pritha Chatterjee, MS, University of California, Riverside

Ela Contreras Panta, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee

Mihir Shah, MD, MBBS, John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, Illinois

Yuhan Fu, DO, Metrohealth Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Raissa Nana Sede Mbakop, MD, Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center, Athens, Georgia

Eleazar Montalvan-Sanchez, MD, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington

Sarang Gupta, MD, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario

Daniel Kim, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Hannah Hrncir, Emory University, Decatur, Georgia

Zarwa Saqib, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario

Ying Zhu, MD, PhD, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Lizeth Cifuentes, MD, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pennsylvania

Sharvani Dhandibhotla, MBBS, MS, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston

Lauren Lynch, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas

AGA Student Abstract of The Year Award

Gabrielle Waclawik, MD, MPH, University of Wisconsin, Madison

AGA Abstract Award for Health Disparities Research

Soyoun Min, PhD, Lerner Research Institute (fellow), Cleveland, Ohio

Xiaobei Zhang, PhD , David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles (fellow)

Matthew Zhao, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles (student)

Hannah Fiske, MD, Brown University/Rhode Island Hospital (student), Providence

AGA-APFED Abstract Award in Eosinophilic GI Diseases

Matthew Buendia, MD, Vanderbilt University Medical Center – Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital, Nashville, Tennessee

Alexandra L. Strauss, MD, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia

Mira Yang, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois

AGA-Moti L. & Kamla Rustgi International Travel Award

Aviv Pudipeddi, MBBS, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia

Dianqin Sun, MBBS, Mmed, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands

The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) is proud to announce the 71 recipients selected to receive research funding through its annual AGA Research Foundation Awards Program. The program serves as a catalyst for discovery and career growth among the most promising researchers in gastroenterology and hepatology.

“This year’s recipients are determined to make an impact on digestive health care through their research,” said Michael Camilleri, MD, AGAF, chair, AGA Research Foundation. “We are honored to support these talented individuals at a critical stage in their careers and research projects. We look forward to seeing their great accomplishments.”

AGA Institute

Research Scholar Awards

AGA Research Scholar Award

Alexander Nguyen, MD, PhD, The Regent of the University of California, Los Angeles

Jeffrey W. Patterson-Fortin, MD, PhD, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, Massachusetts

Sean Spencer, MD, PhD, Stanford Medicine, California

Ken Y. Hui, MD, PhD, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland

AGA-Gastric Cancer Foundation Ben Feinstein Memorial Research Scholar Award in Gastric Cancer

Martina Molgora, PhD, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri

AGA-Takeda Pharmaceuticals Research Scholar Award in Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Brooke R. Druliner, PhD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
 

Specialty Awards

AGA-Caroline Craig Augustyn & Damian Augustyn Award in Digestive Cancer

Simon Schwörer, PhD, University of Chicago, Illinois

AGA-R. Robert & Sally Funderburg Research Award in Gastric Cancer

Bryson W. Katona, MD, PhD, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia

AGA-Amgen Fellowship-to-Faculty Transition Award

Cynthia Hsu, MD, PhD, University of California, San Diego

AGA-Bristol Myers Squibb Fellowship-to-Faculty Transition Award

Siyan Cao, MD, PhD, Washington University in St. Louis

Amit Ringel, MD, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts

Pilot Awards

AGA Pilot Research Award In Digestive Disease Health Disparities

Sharad Wadhwani, MD, MPH, University of California, San Francisco

AGA Pilot Research Award in Health Disparities

Enrique Soto Pérez de Celis, MD, PhD, MS, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán

AGA Pilot Research Award

Diana L. Snyder, MD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

Michael Li, MD, MPH, University of California, San Francisco

Patricia Bloom, MD, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Edward Barnes, MD, MPH, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill

AGA-Amgen Pilot Research Award In Digestive Disease Health Disparities

Laura Targownik, MD, MSHS, University of Toronto/Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON

Undergraduate Research Awards

AGA-Aman Armaan Ahmed Family Summer Undergraduate Research Award

Gwyneth Garramone, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, California

Ella McLaren, University of California, San Diego

Nathan Moy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles

Hussein Elfayoumy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland

Isabelle Garcia-Fischer, Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts

Lidia Appell, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque

Katherine Burkman, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina

Alexa Boylan, Spelman College, Atlanta, Georgia

AGA-Dr. Harvey Young Education and Development Foundation’s Young Guts Scholar Program

Lucy Zhao, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research, Cambridge

Andrew Tran, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina

Sohaib Hassan, Rutgers University – Verzi Lab, New Brunswick, New Jersey

Varun Ponnusamy, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor

Daniella Montalvo, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida

Sara Chough, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York

Abstract Awards

Fellow Abstract Awards

David Flores Marin, MD, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts

Jesse Platt, MD, PhD, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston

Devika Gandhi, MD, Loma Linda University, California

Amanda Krause, MD, University of California, San Diego

Cynthia Tsay, MD, Mphil, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland

Suha Abushamma, MD, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Ohio

Md Obaidul Islam, PhD, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida

Sakteesh Gurunathan, MD, New York University School of Medicine, New York

Aaron Yeoh, MD, Stanford Hospital & Clinics, California

Yang Xiao, PhD, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota

Jacques Gonzales, PhD, MS, Michigan State University, East Lansing

Kai Wang, MD, PhD, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Hoyeol Kim, PhD, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York

Babajide Ojo, PhD, MS, Stanford University, California

AGA Fellow Abstract of the Year Award

Stefania Tocci, PhD, MS, University of Massachusetts, Cambridge

Student Abstract Awards

Pritha Chatterjee, MS, University of California, Riverside

Ela Contreras Panta, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee

Mihir Shah, MD, MBBS, John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County, Chicago, Illinois

Yuhan Fu, DO, Metrohealth Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio

Raissa Nana Sede Mbakop, MD, Piedmont Athens Regional Medical Center, Athens, Georgia

Eleazar Montalvan-Sanchez, MD, Indiana University School of Medicine, Bloomington

Sarang Gupta, MD, St. Michael’s Hospital, Toronto, Ontario

Daniel Kim, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, Massachusetts

Hannah Hrncir, Emory University, Decatur, Georgia

Zarwa Saqib, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario

Ying Zhu, MD, PhD, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Lizeth Cifuentes, MD, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pennsylvania

Sharvani Dhandibhotla, MBBS, MS, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston

Lauren Lynch, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas

AGA Student Abstract of The Year Award

Gabrielle Waclawik, MD, MPH, University of Wisconsin, Madison

AGA Abstract Award for Health Disparities Research

Soyoun Min, PhD, Lerner Research Institute (fellow), Cleveland, Ohio

Xiaobei Zhang, PhD , David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles (fellow)

Matthew Zhao, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles (student)

Hannah Fiske, MD, Brown University/Rhode Island Hospital (student), Providence

AGA-APFED Abstract Award in Eosinophilic GI Diseases

Matthew Buendia, MD, Vanderbilt University Medical Center – Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital, Nashville, Tennessee

Alexandra L. Strauss, MD, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia

Mira Yang, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois

AGA-Moti L. & Kamla Rustgi International Travel Award

Aviv Pudipeddi, MBBS, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia

Dianqin Sun, MBBS, Mmed, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands

The AGA Government Affairs Committee and staff recently published in Gastroenterology the results from an AGA membership survey on policy priorities and how members can contribute to AGA advocacy efforts.¹ Here, we present key highlights from the survey findings and share opportunities for members to engage in GI advocacy.

AGA advocacy has contributed to significant recent successes that include lowering the average-risk of colorectal cancer screening age from 50 to 45 years, phasing out cost-sharing burdens associated with polypectomy at screening colonoscopy, encouraging federal support to focus on GI cancer disparities, ensuring coverage for telehealth services, expanding colonoscopy coverage after positive noninvasive colorectal cancer screening tests, and mitigating scheduled cuts in Medicare reimbursement for GI services.

Despite these important successes, the GI community faces significant challenges that include persisting GI health disparities; declines in reimbursement and increased prior authorization burdens for GI procedures and clinic visits, limited research funding to address the burden of GI disease, climate change, provider burnout, and increasing administrative burdens (such as insurance prior authorizations and step therapy policies.

The AGA sought to better understand policy priorities of the GI community by disseminating a 34-question policy priority survey to AGA members in December 2022. A total of 251 members responded to the survey with career stage and primary practice setting varying among respondents (Figure 1). The AGA vetted and selected 10 health policy issues of highest interest with 95% of survey respondents agreeing these 10 selected topics covered the top priority issues impacting gastroenterology (Figure 2).

From these 10 policy issues, members were asked to identify the top 5 issues that AGA advocacy efforts should address.

The issues most frequently identified included reducing administrative burdens and patient delays in care because of increased prior authorizations (78%), ensuring fair reimbursement for GI providers (68%), reducing insurance-initiated switching of patient treatments for nonmedical reasons (58%), maintaining coverage of video and telephone evaluation and management visits (55%), and reducing delays in clinical care resulting from step therapy protocols (53%).

Other important issues included ensuring patients with pre-existing conditions have access to essential benefits and quality specialty care (43%); protecting providers from medical licensing restrictions and liability to deliver care across state lines (35%); addressing Medicare Quality Payment Program reporting requirements and lack of specialty advanced payment models (27%); increasing funding for GI health disparities (24%); and, increasing federal research funding to ensure greater opportunities for diverse early career investigators (20%).
 

Most problematic burdens

Survey respondents identified insurer prior authorization and step therapy burdens as especially problematic. 93% of respondents described the impact of prior authorization on their practices as “significantly burdensome” (61%) or “somewhat burdensome” (32%).

About 95% noted that prior authorization restrictions have impacted patient access to clinically appropriate treatments and patient clinical outcomes “significantly” (56%) or “somewhat” (39%) negatively. 84% described the burdens associated with prior authorization policies as having increased “significantly” (60%) or “somewhat” (24%) over the last 5 years.

AGA’s advocacy work

About 76% of respondents were interested in learning more about the AGA’s advocacy work. We presented some of the various opportunities and resources for members to engage with and contribute to AGA advocacy efforts (see pie chart). Based on the tremendous efforts and dedication of AGA staff, some of these opportunities include educational modules on AGA University, DDW programming, the AGA Washington Insider monthly policy newsletter, preformatted communications available through the AGA Advocacy Action Center, participation in AGA Advocacy Days or the AGA Congressional Advocates Program, service on the AGA Government Affairs Committee, and/or contributing to the AGA Political Action Committee.

Overall, the survey respondents illustrate the diversity and enthusiasm of AGA membership. Importantly, 95% of AGA members responding to the survey agreed these 10 selected policy issues are inclusive of the current top priority issues of the GI community. Amidst an ever-shifting health care landscape, we – the AGA community – must remain vigilant and adaptable to best address expected and unexpected changes and challenges to our patients and colleagues. In this respect, we should encourage constructive communication and dialogue between AGA membership, leadership, other issue stakeholders, government representatives and entities, and payers.

Amit Patel, MD, is a gastroenterologist and associate professor of medicine at Duke University and the Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, both in Durham, N.C. He serves on the editorial review board of Gastroenterology. Rotonya McCants Carr, MD, is the Cyrus E. Rubin Chair and division head of gastroenterology at the University of Washington, Seattle. Both Dr. Patel and Dr. Carr serve on the AGA Government Affairs Committee. The contents of this article do not represent the views of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Reference

Patel A et al. Gastroenterology. 2023 May;164[6]:847-50.

The AGA Government Affairs Committee and staff recently published in Gastroenterology the results from an AGA membership survey on policy priorities and how members can contribute to AGA advocacy efforts.¹ Here, we present key highlights from the survey findings and share opportunities for members to engage in GI advocacy.

AGA advocacy has contributed to significant recent successes that include lowering the average-risk of colorectal cancer screening age from 50 to 45 years, phasing out cost-sharing burdens associated with polypectomy at screening colonoscopy, encouraging federal support to focus on GI cancer disparities, ensuring coverage for telehealth services, expanding colonoscopy coverage after positive noninvasive colorectal cancer screening tests, and mitigating scheduled cuts in Medicare reimbursement for GI services.

Despite these important successes, the GI community faces significant challenges that include persisting GI health disparities; declines in reimbursement and increased prior authorization burdens for GI procedures and clinic visits, limited research funding to address the burden of GI disease, climate change, provider burnout, and increasing administrative burdens (such as insurance prior authorizations and step therapy policies.

The AGA sought to better understand policy priorities of the GI community by disseminating a 34-question policy priority survey to AGA members in December 2022. A total of 251 members responded to the survey with career stage and primary practice setting varying among respondents (Figure 1). The AGA vetted and selected 10 health policy issues of highest interest with 95% of survey respondents agreeing these 10 selected topics covered the top priority issues impacting gastroenterology (Figure 2).

From these 10 policy issues, members were asked to identify the top 5 issues that AGA advocacy efforts should address.

The issues most frequently identified included reducing administrative burdens and patient delays in care because of increased prior authorizations (78%), ensuring fair reimbursement for GI providers (68%), reducing insurance-initiated switching of patient treatments for nonmedical reasons (58%), maintaining coverage of video and telephone evaluation and management visits (55%), and reducing delays in clinical care resulting from step therapy protocols (53%).

Other important issues included ensuring patients with pre-existing conditions have access to essential benefits and quality specialty care (43%); protecting providers from medical licensing restrictions and liability to deliver care across state lines (35%); addressing Medicare Quality Payment Program reporting requirements and lack of specialty advanced payment models (27%); increasing funding for GI health disparities (24%); and, increasing federal research funding to ensure greater opportunities for diverse early career investigators (20%).
 

Most problematic burdens

Survey respondents identified insurer prior authorization and step therapy burdens as especially problematic. 93% of respondents described the impact of prior authorization on their practices as “significantly burdensome” (61%) or “somewhat burdensome” (32%).

About 95% noted that prior authorization restrictions have impacted patient access to clinically appropriate treatments and patient clinical outcomes “significantly” (56%) or “somewhat” (39%) negatively. 84% described the burdens associated with prior authorization policies as having increased “significantly” (60%) or “somewhat” (24%) over the last 5 years.

AGA’s advocacy work

About 76% of respondents were interested in learning more about the AGA’s advocacy work. We presented some of the various opportunities and resources for members to engage with and contribute to AGA advocacy efforts (see pie chart). Based on the tremendous efforts and dedication of AGA staff, some of these opportunities include educational modules on AGA University, DDW programming, the AGA Washington Insider monthly policy newsletter, preformatted communications available through the AGA Advocacy Action Center, participation in AGA Advocacy Days or the AGA Congressional Advocates Program, service on the AGA Government Affairs Committee, and/or contributing to the AGA Political Action Committee.

Overall, the survey respondents illustrate the diversity and enthusiasm of AGA membership. Importantly, 95% of AGA members responding to the survey agreed these 10 selected policy issues are inclusive of the current top priority issues of the GI community. Amidst an ever-shifting health care landscape, we – the AGA community – must remain vigilant and adaptable to best address expected and unexpected changes and challenges to our patients and colleagues. In this respect, we should encourage constructive communication and dialogue between AGA membership, leadership, other issue stakeholders, government representatives and entities, and payers.

Amit Patel, MD, is a gastroenterologist and associate professor of medicine at Duke University and the Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, both in Durham, N.C. He serves on the editorial review board of Gastroenterology. Rotonya McCants Carr, MD, is the Cyrus E. Rubin Chair and division head of gastroenterology at the University of Washington, Seattle. Both Dr. Patel and Dr. Carr serve on the AGA Government Affairs Committee. The contents of this article do not represent the views of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Reference

Patel A et al. Gastroenterology. 2023 May;164[6]:847-50.

The AGA Government Affairs Committee and staff recently published in Gastroenterology the results from an AGA membership survey on policy priorities and how members can contribute to AGA advocacy efforts.¹ Here, we present key highlights from the survey findings and share opportunities for members to engage in GI advocacy.

AGA advocacy has contributed to significant recent successes that include lowering the average-risk of colorectal cancer screening age from 50 to 45 years, phasing out cost-sharing burdens associated with polypectomy at screening colonoscopy, encouraging federal support to focus on GI cancer disparities, ensuring coverage for telehealth services, expanding colonoscopy coverage after positive noninvasive colorectal cancer screening tests, and mitigating scheduled cuts in Medicare reimbursement for GI services.

Despite these important successes, the GI community faces significant challenges that include persisting GI health disparities; declines in reimbursement and increased prior authorization burdens for GI procedures and clinic visits, limited research funding to address the burden of GI disease, climate change, provider burnout, and increasing administrative burdens (such as insurance prior authorizations and step therapy policies.

The AGA sought to better understand policy priorities of the GI community by disseminating a 34-question policy priority survey to AGA members in December 2022. A total of 251 members responded to the survey with career stage and primary practice setting varying among respondents (Figure 1). The AGA vetted and selected 10 health policy issues of highest interest with 95% of survey respondents agreeing these 10 selected topics covered the top priority issues impacting gastroenterology (Figure 2).

From these 10 policy issues, members were asked to identify the top 5 issues that AGA advocacy efforts should address.

The issues most frequently identified included reducing administrative burdens and patient delays in care because of increased prior authorizations (78%), ensuring fair reimbursement for GI providers (68%), reducing insurance-initiated switching of patient treatments for nonmedical reasons (58%), maintaining coverage of video and telephone evaluation and management visits (55%), and reducing delays in clinical care resulting from step therapy protocols (53%).

Other important issues included ensuring patients with pre-existing conditions have access to essential benefits and quality specialty care (43%); protecting providers from medical licensing restrictions and liability to deliver care across state lines (35%); addressing Medicare Quality Payment Program reporting requirements and lack of specialty advanced payment models (27%); increasing funding for GI health disparities (24%); and, increasing federal research funding to ensure greater opportunities for diverse early career investigators (20%).
 

Most problematic burdens

Survey respondents identified insurer prior authorization and step therapy burdens as especially problematic. 93% of respondents described the impact of prior authorization on their practices as “significantly burdensome” (61%) or “somewhat burdensome” (32%).

About 95% noted that prior authorization restrictions have impacted patient access to clinically appropriate treatments and patient clinical outcomes “significantly” (56%) or “somewhat” (39%) negatively. 84% described the burdens associated with prior authorization policies as having increased “significantly” (60%) or “somewhat” (24%) over the last 5 years.

AGA’s advocacy work

About 76% of respondents were interested in learning more about the AGA’s advocacy work. We presented some of the various opportunities and resources for members to engage with and contribute to AGA advocacy efforts (see pie chart). Based on the tremendous efforts and dedication of AGA staff, some of these opportunities include educational modules on AGA University, DDW programming, the AGA Washington Insider monthly policy newsletter, preformatted communications available through the AGA Advocacy Action Center, participation in AGA Advocacy Days or the AGA Congressional Advocates Program, service on the AGA Government Affairs Committee, and/or contributing to the AGA Political Action Committee.

Overall, the survey respondents illustrate the diversity and enthusiasm of AGA membership. Importantly, 95% of AGA members responding to the survey agreed these 10 selected policy issues are inclusive of the current top priority issues of the GI community. Amidst an ever-shifting health care landscape, we – the AGA community – must remain vigilant and adaptable to best address expected and unexpected changes and challenges to our patients and colleagues. In this respect, we should encourage constructive communication and dialogue between AGA membership, leadership, other issue stakeholders, government representatives and entities, and payers.

Amit Patel, MD, is a gastroenterologist and associate professor of medicine at Duke University and the Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Center, both in Durham, N.C. He serves on the editorial review board of Gastroenterology. Rotonya McCants Carr, MD, is the Cyrus E. Rubin Chair and division head of gastroenterology at the University of Washington, Seattle. Both Dr. Patel and Dr. Carr serve on the AGA Government Affairs Committee. The contents of this article do not represent the views of the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Reference

Patel A et al. Gastroenterology. 2023 May;164[6]:847-50.

The American Gastroenterological Association announced the association’s venture capital fund, GI Opportunity Fund 1, invested in EvoEndo,, a medical device company developing platforms for unsedated transnasal endoscopy (TNE).

“AGA is proud to support EvoEndo® and its innovative technology that has the potential to improve care, save time, resources, and cost for hospitals and the GI community at large,” said Michael L. Kochman, MD, AGAF, MASGE, Wilmott Family Professor of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Endoscopic Innovation, Research and Training, gastroenterology division, University of Pennsylvania Health System; fund manager and adviser, AGA GI Opportunity Fund.

The EvoEndo® Single-Use Endoscopy System received FDA 510(k) clearance in February 2022. The EvoEndo System includes a sterile, single-use, flexible gastroscope designed for unsedated transnasal upper endoscopy and a small portable video controller. The EvoEndo Comfort Kit (not part of the cleared EvoEndo System) includes virtual reality (VR) goggles for patient distraction during the unsedated transnasal endoscopy procedure. Unsedated TNE can be used to evaluate and diagnose a wide range of upper GI conditions that may require frequent monitoring, including eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), dysphagia, celiac disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, Barrett’s esophagus, malabsorption, and abdominal pain.

“We are grateful for the support of the AGA, which is a testament to our ongoing commitment to improving GI outcomes with our technology,” said Jonathan T. Hartmann, CEO at EvoEndo. “The AGA has always been at the forefront of improving GI care. Our team could not be more excited that they have recognized EvoEndo, and we look forward to continuing to expand adoption of our technology to the GI community, its physicians, and their patients.”

TNE enabled by EvoEndo’s Single-Use Endoscopy System allows hospitals to move endoscopy procedures from an ambulatory procedural suite to an office-based environment and allows the “traditional” sedation procedure rooms to be used for more complex, therapeutic cases.

“Expanding our fund’s portfolio to include technologies that can transform the pediatric GI landscape is particularly exciting for Varia Ventures,” said Andrea Vossler, cofounder and managing director at Varia Ventures. “EvoEndo® has made significant progress in the TNE category, and we are excited for what’s to come in the future.”

The EvoEndo® Model LE Gastroscope is intended for the visualization of the upper digestive tract in adults and pediatric patients, specifically for the observation, diagnosis, and endoscopic treatment of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenal bulb in patients over the age of five. The gastroscope is a sterile, single-use device and can be inserted orally or transnasally. The EvoEndo® Controller is intended for use with an EvoEndo® Endoscope for endoscopic diagnosis, treatment, and video observation. The EvoEndo System is only intended for use by medical professionals. Physicians and other medical providers interested in learning more about EvoEndo’s TNE system or scheduling demonstrations and training can contact the company here.

The American Gastroenterological Association announced the association’s venture capital fund, GI Opportunity Fund 1, invested in EvoEndo,, a medical device company developing platforms for unsedated transnasal endoscopy (TNE).

“AGA is proud to support EvoEndo® and its innovative technology that has the potential to improve care, save time, resources, and cost for hospitals and the GI community at large,” said Michael L. Kochman, MD, AGAF, MASGE, Wilmott Family Professor of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Endoscopic Innovation, Research and Training, gastroenterology division, University of Pennsylvania Health System; fund manager and adviser, AGA GI Opportunity Fund.

The EvoEndo® Single-Use Endoscopy System received FDA 510(k) clearance in February 2022. The EvoEndo System includes a sterile, single-use, flexible gastroscope designed for unsedated transnasal upper endoscopy and a small portable video controller. The EvoEndo Comfort Kit (not part of the cleared EvoEndo System) includes virtual reality (VR) goggles for patient distraction during the unsedated transnasal endoscopy procedure. Unsedated TNE can be used to evaluate and diagnose a wide range of upper GI conditions that may require frequent monitoring, including eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), dysphagia, celiac disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, Barrett’s esophagus, malabsorption, and abdominal pain.

“We are grateful for the support of the AGA, which is a testament to our ongoing commitment to improving GI outcomes with our technology,” said Jonathan T. Hartmann, CEO at EvoEndo. “The AGA has always been at the forefront of improving GI care. Our team could not be more excited that they have recognized EvoEndo, and we look forward to continuing to expand adoption of our technology to the GI community, its physicians, and their patients.”

TNE enabled by EvoEndo’s Single-Use Endoscopy System allows hospitals to move endoscopy procedures from an ambulatory procedural suite to an office-based environment and allows the “traditional” sedation procedure rooms to be used for more complex, therapeutic cases.

“Expanding our fund’s portfolio to include technologies that can transform the pediatric GI landscape is particularly exciting for Varia Ventures,” said Andrea Vossler, cofounder and managing director at Varia Ventures. “EvoEndo® has made significant progress in the TNE category, and we are excited for what’s to come in the future.”

The EvoEndo® Model LE Gastroscope is intended for the visualization of the upper digestive tract in adults and pediatric patients, specifically for the observation, diagnosis, and endoscopic treatment of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenal bulb in patients over the age of five. The gastroscope is a sterile, single-use device and can be inserted orally or transnasally. The EvoEndo® Controller is intended for use with an EvoEndo® Endoscope for endoscopic diagnosis, treatment, and video observation. The EvoEndo System is only intended for use by medical professionals. Physicians and other medical providers interested in learning more about EvoEndo’s TNE system or scheduling demonstrations and training can contact the company here.

The American Gastroenterological Association announced the association’s venture capital fund, GI Opportunity Fund 1, invested in EvoEndo,, a medical device company developing platforms for unsedated transnasal endoscopy (TNE).

“AGA is proud to support EvoEndo® and its innovative technology that has the potential to improve care, save time, resources, and cost for hospitals and the GI community at large,” said Michael L. Kochman, MD, AGAF, MASGE, Wilmott Family Professor of Medicine and Surgery, Center for Endoscopic Innovation, Research and Training, gastroenterology division, University of Pennsylvania Health System; fund manager and adviser, AGA GI Opportunity Fund.

The EvoEndo® Single-Use Endoscopy System received FDA 510(k) clearance in February 2022. The EvoEndo System includes a sterile, single-use, flexible gastroscope designed for unsedated transnasal upper endoscopy and a small portable video controller. The EvoEndo Comfort Kit (not part of the cleared EvoEndo System) includes virtual reality (VR) goggles for patient distraction during the unsedated transnasal endoscopy procedure. Unsedated TNE can be used to evaluate and diagnose a wide range of upper GI conditions that may require frequent monitoring, including eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), dysphagia, celiac disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, Barrett’s esophagus, malabsorption, and abdominal pain.

“We are grateful for the support of the AGA, which is a testament to our ongoing commitment to improving GI outcomes with our technology,” said Jonathan T. Hartmann, CEO at EvoEndo. “The AGA has always been at the forefront of improving GI care. Our team could not be more excited that they have recognized EvoEndo, and we look forward to continuing to expand adoption of our technology to the GI community, its physicians, and their patients.”

TNE enabled by EvoEndo’s Single-Use Endoscopy System allows hospitals to move endoscopy procedures from an ambulatory procedural suite to an office-based environment and allows the “traditional” sedation procedure rooms to be used for more complex, therapeutic cases.

“Expanding our fund’s portfolio to include technologies that can transform the pediatric GI landscape is particularly exciting for Varia Ventures,” said Andrea Vossler, cofounder and managing director at Varia Ventures. “EvoEndo® has made significant progress in the TNE category, and we are excited for what’s to come in the future.”

The EvoEndo® Model LE Gastroscope is intended for the visualization of the upper digestive tract in adults and pediatric patients, specifically for the observation, diagnosis, and endoscopic treatment of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenal bulb in patients over the age of five. The gastroscope is a sterile, single-use device and can be inserted orally or transnasally. The EvoEndo® Controller is intended for use with an EvoEndo® Endoscope for endoscopic diagnosis, treatment, and video observation. The EvoEndo System is only intended for use by medical professionals. Physicians and other medical providers interested in learning more about EvoEndo’s TNE system or scheduling demonstrations and training can contact the company here.

Get the latest recommendations for treating your patients at Digestive Disease Week^® (DDW) 2023. Below is a sampling of AGA’s invited-speaker sessions we’re excited about this year for clinical practitioners. To view other AGA program highlights, check out the DDW Preliminary Program.

• Guidelines Highlights 2023
• Clinical Practice Updates: Battle of the Heavyweights
• AGA Clinical Symposium
• Case Studies in Measuring Care and Improving Quality
• Optimizing Your GI Practice: Guidelines, Quality and Delivery
• AGA Postgraduate Course ($)
• Surviving the First Years in Clinical Practice: Roundtable With the Experts

Register now.

Get the latest recommendations for treating your patients at Digestive Disease Week^® (DDW) 2023. Below is a sampling of AGA’s invited-speaker sessions we’re excited about this year for clinical practitioners. To view other AGA program highlights, check out the DDW Preliminary Program.

• Guidelines Highlights 2023
• Clinical Practice Updates: Battle of the Heavyweights
• AGA Clinical Symposium
• Case Studies in Measuring Care and Improving Quality
• Optimizing Your GI Practice: Guidelines, Quality and Delivery
• AGA Postgraduate Course ($)
• Surviving the First Years in Clinical Practice: Roundtable With the Experts

Register now.

Get the latest recommendations for treating your patients at Digestive Disease Week^® (DDW) 2023. Below is a sampling of AGA’s invited-speaker sessions we’re excited about this year for clinical practitioners. To view other AGA program highlights, check out the DDW Preliminary Program.

• Guidelines Highlights 2023
• Clinical Practice Updates: Battle of the Heavyweights
• AGA Clinical Symposium
• Case Studies in Measuring Care and Improving Quality
• Optimizing Your GI Practice: Guidelines, Quality and Delivery
• AGA Postgraduate Course ($)
• Surviving the First Years in Clinical Practice: Roundtable With the Experts

Register now.