GP education event: strengthening eating disorder care within primary health settings across Adelaide

In Australia, an estimated one million people live with eating disorders, yet less than 25% receive care in our health system. Research consistently shows that early intervention leads to better recovery outcomes, making timely identification and response in general practice crucial. Adelaide PHN, in partnership with the National Eating Disorder Collaboration (NEDC), is addressing this gap through the Right Care Right Place Project. This initiative aims to strengthen eating disorder care within primary health settings across Adelaide, with a focus on supporting general practice.

A dedicated Support Navigator (Eating Disorders) is now available through the Head to Health Phone Service to provide guidance to Adelaide general practices on connecting patients with appropriate eating disorder care and support pathways. GPs can seek advice or make referrals via phone (1800 595 212), HealthLink, or fax (08 8121 1802). General practices can also access comprehensive eating disorder resources through the InsideOut Institute's GP Hub and Practice Management Toolkit. This includes eScreener and eAssessment tools, clinical decision support for diagnosis and treatment planning, and practice guidelines covering medical monitoring, complex care support, and clinical escalation protocols.

A GP education event focused on identifying and providing an initial response to eating disorders in general practice is planned for early 2025. General practices interested in attending or wanting to discuss supports available through the Right Care Right Place project are encouraged to contact Project Lead Stacey Roy at sroy@adelaidephn.com.au.

28 November 2024