MIDLANDS ENDOSCOPY NETWORK HOSTS FIRST EVER ERCP CLINICAL SUMMIT
12 December 2024
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In October, the Midlands Endoscopy Network successfully hosted the inaugural ERCP Clinical Summit in Leicester.
The event brought together clinicians, specialists, and stakeholders to discuss the development and transformation of Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) services across the Midlands.
The summit provided a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and strategic planning, with the ultimate goal of improving patient care and addressing workforce challenges across the region.
Professor Andrew Chilton, Midlands Endoscopy Lead and a Gastroenterologist specialising in Therapeutic Endoscopy and Bowel Cancer Screening, emphasised the importance of a networked approach:
“We have 11 Integrated Care Systems across the Midlands, serving around 11 million people—a significant challenge.
“By pooling resources and working collaboratively, we can address workforce and capacity challenges, improve access, and aim to deliver a 24/7 ERCP service for those in need.”
To achieve these ambitions, Professor Chilton announced the formation of regional working groups, with ERCP as the vanguard. Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for leadership roles in the ERCP working group are now being accepted.
Dr Martin James, Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, said:
“It’s essential that regional and national teams collaborate to improve ERCP service delivery. We must address workforce retention, recruitment, and upskilling while optimising resources to secure safe, high quality outcomes for patients.”
Dr Srisha Hebbar, Consultant Gastroenterologist at University Hospitals of North Midlands and Midlands Academy ERCP/EUS Training Lead, highlighted the critical role of training and upskilling in the future of ERCP services:
“To develop a robust network, training must be central to our efforts. This includes refining trainer skills, upskilling established ERCP practitioners, and integrating Endoscopic Ultrasound training alongside ERCP.”
A key outcome of the summit was the call for EOIs for East/West ERCP Leads to represent regional views and challenges. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by 17th January 2025 by contacting Polly Kaur at polly.kaur2@nhs.net.
Additionally, the Midlands Endoscopy Network Launch Event will take place on 31st January 2025, from 9.30am to 2.30pm, at the Village Hotel in Walsall. This event will outline the Network’s vision and provide further opportunities for engagement.