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Narrative Review January 6, 2022

Caring for Adults With Eating Disorders in Primary Care

Diana C. Lemly, MD; Melissa J. Dreier, AB; Shana Birnbaum, MD; Kamryn T. Eddy, PhD; Jennifer J. Thomas, PhD

Prim Care Companion CNS Disord 2022;24(1):20nr02887

ABSTRACT

Eating disorders are prevalent in adulthood and have high rates of morbidity and mortality. In many cases, primary care physicians (PCPs) are the first and/or only medical professionals to interact with individuals with eating disorders. However, PCPs often do not receive adequate training to confidently and appropriately care for these patients. This review includes up-to-date screening and treatment guidelines and relevant studies concerning the care of adult patients with eating disorders and provides concise guidance for PCPs regarding the outpatient management of these patients in primary care. Three case reports are also included to provide real-life examples of patients with eating disorders that PCPs may encounter. Although eating disorders can have grave consequences, recovery is possible and common, even after patients have been ill for many years. PCPs can play an integral role in promoting recovery by following evidence-based guidelines, by identifying when medical or psychiatric hospitalization is indicated, by monitoring for medical complications, and by referring early to evidenced-based therapies.

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