How do I Choose the Best Eating Disorder Hospital?

Whether choosing an eating disorder hospital for yourself or a family member, there are a number of things to think about before selecting a facility. Choosing the right facility is important, as it will increase the probability of having success in treatment. If a patient is already in treatment as a result of the need for emergency hospitalization or the early identification of an eating disorder, it is not necessarily a good idea to assume that the patient is in the best facility. It may be in the patient's best interests to transfer to a different facility.

One of the most critical things to think about is which kind of eating disorders a hospital provides treatment for, and to look specifically for staff members who specialize in the patient's condition. A patient with anorexia nervosa, for example, would not be well served at an eating disorder hospital which focuses on binge eating.

The type of program is also important. Residential, outpatient, and inpatient facilities are all options to consider. Residential and inpatient facilities offer more intensive treatment, and can be more suitable for people with severe eating disorders. For someone in recovery or someone with a more mild eating disorder, outpatient treatment may be better.

Another thing to consider when choosing an eating disorder hospital is the facility's staffing and approach to treatment. The staff should include psychologists, psychiatrists, nutritionists, and nurses who specialize in eating disorders. Therapy options may include one on one along with group therapy and other types of therapy. Staff members should be asked about the facility's philosophy, its definition of “recovery,” and the facility's success rate with the patient's specific eating disorder. Prospective patients may also want to ask about long term success.

If a patient has comorbidities, whether or not they are related to the eating disorder, the eating disorder hospital should provide adequate support and treatment for these. For example, a patient with a heart damaged by anorexia needs to be able to see a cardiologist and to receive follow-up examinations and treatment.

Activities and services available may also be a topic of interest, especially if a patient has taken interest in particular activities. For example, a patient who likes horses may benefit from being in a program which offers equine therapy. Involvement of family and friends in treatment may also be a topic of consideration. Some people want to be involved in treatment, and may find it helpful to participate in family and friends session to help the patient and learn how to support the patient after he or she is released.

Visiting an eating disorder hospital is the best way to determine whether or not it is suitable. A visit gives people a chance to meet the staff, see the facilities, and get a feel for the clinic's environment. Prospective patients can also meet current patients and talk to them about the program. If a clinic feels cold and unwelcoming, it may not be the best place for a patient.