Methods to build and maintain effective clinician-patient relationships for adults with disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI): a systematic review.

In 30 seconds

This systematic review examined methods for building and maintaining effective clinician–patient relationships in adults receiving care for disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI). It identified 12 studies—four systematic reviews and eight primary studies—and synthesised findings narratively. Empathy, warmth and active listening in augmented encounters were associated with better clinical outcomes, including symptom severity and quality of life, particularly in irritable bowel syndrome. Confident positive diagnosis and gut–brain-axis education were reported to improve treatment adherence in functional dyspepsia. The authors emphasise that the evidence is heterogeneous and that further direct clinical studies are needed.

Key findings

• The review included 12 studies: four systematic reviews and eight primary studies.
• Augmented encounters featuring empathy, warmth and active listening improved symptom severity and quality of life, particularly in irritable bowel syndrome.
• In functional dyspepsia, confident positive diagnosis and gut–brain-axis psychoeducation were reported to enhance treatment adherence.
• Multidisciplinary care models and non-deceptive placebos were identified as strategies that may optimise the therapeutic context.

Why it matters

The review organises relational approaches as a foundational part of DGBI care, alongside other management strategies. Its findings highlight that communication and the therapeutic context may influence outcomes such as symptoms, quality of life and adherence. However, the evidence does not yet establish which approaches work best for particular DGBI populations or clinical settings.

What to keep in mind

The evidence was heterogeneous and partly indirect; the authors call for further high-quality, direct clinical studies.