Surgeons must clarify roles between acute care and colorectal surgeons for better patient outcomes in acute lower gastrointestinal conditions.

• Consensus reached on service assignment for only 10 of 20 conditions (50%).
• Key determinants for service allocation include surgeon expertise, patient status, and institutional resources.

Understanding these factors can enhance triage protocols and improve patient management in dual-coverage settings.

• Emergency management skills were prioritized for unstable patients, indicating the need for flexibility in assignments.