Inconsistencies in Eating Disorder Treatment
Eating disorders develop in a variety of ways. They are caused by a complex combination of biological and environmental factors each playing a role. Often an eating disorder emerges during an especially traumatic emotional time, such as adolescence or a major life change, such as divorce.
Treatment programs for eating disorders are just as varied as the disorders themselves. Programs often involve cognitive behavioral therapy, but many also incorporate artistic expression as part of the recovery process. There are also options for parents and other loved ones to be involved with the treatment, but in most cases the program offered is for the individual.
A recent study examined the variations among treatment programs across the United States, assessing them for the types of treatment offered and other aspects of the programs. They found that inconsistencies abound.
The study found, for instance, that the centers are mostly unregulated, with in-house staff determining the regulations for the treatment programs and costs.
The research also revealed that costs are typically high for those seeking help with recovery from an eating disorder. The average patient was in treatment for 83 days at an average cost of $1,000 per day. The authors point out, however, that this cost is about half of the cost for inpatient treatment.
Led by Dr. Maria Frisch, the researchers examined 22 residential eating disorder treatment programs across the United States and found extensive inconsistencies in licensure. They found that while most programs had general state licenses, only a few had licenses for treating eating disorders. Only 28 percent were accredited with the Joint Commission of Healthcare Organizations.
There was a wide range of treatment options offered to the patients undergoing therapy for eating disorders. On average, people in treatment participated in approximately six hours of nontraditional therapy such as art and music classes, recreational and experiential activities and physical activities such as yoga for every ten hours of traditional group therapy.
In addition, the patients also received about two hours of individual therapy for every ten hours they participated in group therapy.
There was also a difference found among treatment centers when it came to following up with patients. Approximately half of the programs indicated that they conducted studies of treatment outcomes.
The study, which appeared in the International Journal of Eating Disorders, shows the wide range of programs offered to those suffering from eating disorders and the inconsistencies in licensure which may contribute to the high cost of treatment.
