This article, written by Elizabeth Landau, CNN, provides some interesting and factual insight into how certain 'diagnoses' of eating disorders can actually hinder people getting treatment.
(CNN) -- The term "eating disorder" often suggests losing a dangerous amount of weight.
But there are people engaging in harmful eating behaviors who haven't lost much weight, or who gain some, and they are not getting the treatment they need, doctors say.
Some insurance companies will only cover treatment for eating disorders if the patient meets all of the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, a guidebook for diagnosing mental illnesses, doctors say. Patients who don't match all the symptoms, which include severe weight loss, are labeled "eating disorder not otherwise specified" (EDNOS) and sometimes don't qualify for the level of care they need.
A new study, published in the journal Pediatrics, found more than 60 percent of patients with EDNOS met medical criteria for hospitalization and were, on average, sicker than patients diagnosed with full-blown bulimia.
That means more than 60 percent of patients with EDNOS may have trouble getting care covered by an insurance company, said Dr. Rebecka Peebles of the Department of Pediatrics at Stanford University School of Medicine.
"The diagnosis provides no meaningful information regarding the nature of the problem or appropriate treatment approaches," said Pamela Keel, professor of psychology at Florida State University, who was not involved in the study, in an e-mail.....
Please go to http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/04/12/eating.disorders.ednos/index.html?e...
to read the entire article.
Click on a state below to find eating disorder treatment options that could be right for you.
For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
The information provided on EatingDisordersOnline.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes and we encourage all visitors to see a licensed physician if they believe that they have an eating disorder. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of EatingDisordersOnline.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.
.tiny.jpg "tiny")
.tiny.jpg "tiny")
.tiny.jpg "tiny")
Eating Disorder Support Groups at SupportGroups.com provides a network for those facing life's challenges. Click on the following links to get the support you need in a confidential, caring environment.
If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder and need help entering into recovery then we are here to offer help in any way we can. We have over 2,000 Treatment Facilities and Treatment Professionals listed on our Directory. You can search by Zip Code, City or State. Click here to search for a Treatment Facility that is right for you.
Very enlightening. This is a
Very enlightening. This is a class example of how different words and definitions confuse and create messes instead of bringing clarification. It also shows how vital matters can get caught up in bureaucracy. Maybe the health care reform will bring some relief in this area, does anyone know? Here's to hoping.
Sorry for any double post.
Sorry for any double post.