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. 2022 Apr;46(2):89-95.
doi: 10.1192/bjb.2021.73.

Risk, demand, capacity and outcomes in adult specialist eating disorder services in South-East of England before and since COVID-19

Agnes Ayton  1 , David Viljoen  1 , Sharon Ryan  1 , Ali Ibrahim  2 , Duncan Ford  1
Affiliations

Risk, demand, capacity and outcomes in adult specialist eating disorder services in South-East of England before and since COVID-19

Agnes Ayton et al. BJPsych Bull. 2022 Apr.

Abstract

Aims and method: This is a longitudinal cohort study describing the demand, capacity and outcomes of adult specialist eating disorder in-patient services covering a population of 3.5 million in a South-East England provider collaborative before and since the COVID-19 pandemic, between July 2018 and March 2021.

Results: There were 351 referrals for admission; 97% were female, 95% had a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa and 19% had a body mass index (BMI) <13. Referrals have increased by 21% since the start of pandemic, coinciding with reduced capacity. Waiting times have increased from 33 to 46 days. There were significant differences in outcomes between providers. A novel, integrated enhanced cognitive behaviour theapy treatment model showed a 25% reduction in length of stay and improved BMI on discharge (50% v. 16% BMI >19), compared with traditional eclectic in-patient treatment.

Clinical implications: Integrated enhanced cognitive behaviour theapy reduced length of stay and improved outcomes, and can offer more effective use of healthcare resources.

Keywords: Anorexia nervosa; COVID-19; access and waiting times; eating disorders; in-patient treatment.

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Conflict of interest statement

None.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Waiting times for admission depending on severity of malnutrition.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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