Information for Health Professionals

Introduction
Eating disorders are psychological and medical disorders that involve very serious abnormalities in eating and weight control behaviours. They are often complex problems that can be difficult to identify and manage in primary care. The support and information needs of health professionals in this area are considerable.

General Practitioners
Given the high mortality and morbidity rates associated with these disorders, General Practitioners play a vital role in recognising and responding to people affected by eating disorders. Quite often their GP is their first point of call for help. This can present GPs with a variety of problems including how to best approach the problem; the requirements of an adequate assessment; making a differential diagnosis; and knowing when and where to refer the person or family for further help.

GP Project
To assist General Practitioners, as part of an ongoing GP Project, the Eating Disorders Resource Centre has developed an 'Information Pack for General Practitioners' which includes:
•Assistance to recognise and assess people with eating disorders;
•Quick Reference Guide for primary care providers
•Techniques to respond via early identification and effective early intervention strategies;
•Resources and strategies for the longer term management of people with eating disorders;
•Referral options, including outpatient/community care, specialist services and inpatient care.

Information Pack for General Practitioners
This pack is a comprehensive resource addressing early detection assessment, management and appropriate referral of people with eating disorders. Practitioners within Australia may contact the Eating Disorders Resource Centre to request a copy by mail which will be sent to you at a cost of AU$15 which covers printing costs, postage and handling. If you would like to pick it up in person, the cost will be $11 (inc. GST).

Eating Disorders Outreach Service
If you would like to refer a patient for an outpatient assessment at the Royal Brisbane Hospital, please download, read and complete the following forms and fax to the number on the bottom. The Outreach Service will then contact the patient to make an appointment with a consultant psychiatrist and a dietitian. After discussion with a multi-disciplinary team, the Service will then feedback to you their recommendations for ongoing management or referral of the patient.

Explanatory Letter

Referral Form


Contact Details For Posting of a GP Pack

The Eating Disorders Association
Resource Centre
12 Chatsworth Rd
Greenslopes, Qld, 4120

Telephone: (07) 3394 3661 Fax: (07) 3394 3663

or you can email your request