Common Gastroenterological Presentations in Primary Care

Dr Abishek Sharma is a General Gastroenterologist at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, with a broad interest in gastrointestinal medicine, particularly luminal Gastroenterology and Hepatology. He has a particular interest in endoscopy, including Bowel Cancer Screening, Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) and therapeutic GI endoscopy. He is also a Faculty Trainer with the North West Endoscopy Academy and teaches on JAG colonoscopy courses.

During his specialist training, Dr Sharma completed a PhD at the University of Manchester investigating visceral pain hypersensitivity arising from the oesophagus. His research has led to national and international presentations and publications, alongside several awards and travel prizes.

Alongside his clinical work, Dr Sharma has a strong interest in healthcare management, service development and implementing change. He has held several senior clinical leadership roles at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, including Clinical Director of Medicine and Associate Divisional Medical Director for Specialist Medicine.

He is also co-founder and co-managing director of Alimentary Solutions, a CQC-registered independent healthcare provider specialising in diagnostic endoscopy and radiology services. Since 2017, the organisation has delivered more than 30,000 investigations across primary and secondary care, working with NHS partners to increase diagnostic capacity and reduce waiting times.

Dr Sharma combines clinical practice, research, education and service development, with a particular interest in improving the pathway from initial presentation and investigation through to diagnosis and treatment.