Clinically, psychosocially, and financially, hepatic encephalopathy (HE) affects many stakeholders. The multi-layered influence of HE is threefold and concerns different groups or, say, villages. The first village intercedes HE development, including genetics, microbiome, and disease severity. The second village comprises those affected by HE-related consequences, including the patient, caregivers, society, and the medical system. The third village engaged in the management of HE includes a multidisciplinary team of inpatient and outpatient providers, mental health experts, physical therapists, and dietary specialists. 

Understanding and integrating the role of these three villages can encourage individualized care for patients and families affected by hepatic encephalopathy.

Bajaj JS. The Three Villages of Hepatic Encephalopathy. Am J Gastroenterol. 2021 Jun 1;116(6):1184-1186. doi: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001212.