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TIP 1 – Embrace UpskillingEating Disorders are serious mental illnesses listed within the DSM-5, that present physically with often detrimental, long-term physical and mental health consequences. The new Medicare Eating Disorders Plan (EDP) has been established to enable a multidisciplinary program for recovery. We have put together some information to assist medical practitioners identify eating disorders, use the tools designed to assist with diagnosis, and correctly use the eating disorder plan and referral process. This information can be found on our Eating Disorders webpage. |
TIP 2 – Early detectionThe complex nature of eating disorders means they often go unnoticed. The most common eating disorders are binge eating disorders (BED) and other eating and feeding disorders (OSFED), affecting both females and males of any age, socioeconomic or cultural background. Identification of these disorders is easily missed as individuals with these eating disorders are generally of average to above average weight. Barriers around identification, engaging in discussions, and motivation for treatment can be at its lowest in the early stages. Early detection and treatment improve the likelihood of recovery and reduces it impact and recovery time. Training around identification is easily accessible and imperative. Information for training is on our Eating Disorders webpage. |
TIP 3 – Insightful interviewingEating disorders are serious mental illnesses often overlooked due to common physical and mental health presentations which can include:
Screening questions used on an opportunistic basis help to initiate disclosure. They do not diagnose eating disorders but detect the possible presence of one. Short assessment tools such as SCOFF and the Eating Disorder Screen for Primary Care (ESP) help to initiate a disclosure which may enable early access to treatment. These tools are available on the Eating Disorders webpage. |
References:
All of the above information was drawn from the National Eating Disorder Collaboration (NEDC), an initiative of the Australian Government department of Health.
For a wealth of accessible information visit the National Eating Disorders Collaboration
For a quick reference and thorough guide: NEDC Eating Disorders: a professional resource for General practitioners
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