187089 - Recognising eating disorders in general practice

This activity aims to improve early detection of and intervention in eating disorders by raising awareness of the signs and symptoms, providing tools to communicate with patients about eating behaviours, and providing an overview of the GP’s role within the multidisciplinary care team. Knowledge is applied through a series of interactive case studies.

An increasing proportion of the population is affected by disordered eating and about 1 million Australians have an eating disorder. As well as involving psychological impairment and distress, eating disorders are associated with significant physical complications and increased mortality – regardless of an individual’s weight. Indeed, patients with eating disorders can be underweight, overweight, or in the ‘healthy’ weight range. Eating disorders frequently go undiagnosed and untreated. GPs are often the first health professionals that a person with disordered eating will come in contact with; however, most patients present with other illnesses and do not seek help for their eating behaviours. It is important that GPs have eating disorders on their radar, can recognise the often subtle signs and symptoms, and know how to approach this topic with their patients, in order to intervene early and improve patient outcomes.

D1. Communication skills and the patient-doctor relationship

• Effective communication is used in challenging situations

D2. Applied professional knowledge and skills

• A comprehensive, clearly documented biopsychosocial history is taken from the patient

D3. Population health and the context of general practice

• The patterns and prevalence of disease are incorporated into screening and management practices

D4. Professional and ethical role

• Duty of care is maintained

D5. Organisational and legal dimensions

• Patient confidentiality is managed appropriately

• Adult health
• Children and young people health
• Women's health
• Psychological health

Eating Disorders Victoria