Nationell utvärdering av vården i mötet med ätstörningar

Abstract

Approximately 200 000 individuals will develop an eating disorder in their life-time in Sweden. A survey was conducted investigating the experience of treatment by patients and carers (N = 400) in the previous year. Patients report health care personnel having a negative or inadequate attitude, with little adjustment to the particular patient. Excessive emphasis was placed on body weight and food intake, to the detriment of the patient’s psychology. Treatment was often initiated past stipulated waiting time. Patients and their carers argued that knowledge of eating disorders needs to be increased, particularly in non-specialized care. Waiting times need to decrease and treatment should be conducted according to a plan and with continuity. Several treatment options should be offered, as well as individualized care. When patients are underage, carers should be offered support and psychoeducation. The most helpful factor was to feel heard by the treatment provider.