| Eating Disorders Program |
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Treatment options inc referrals
Inpatient Program
The Inpatient Unit has eight beds. Two streams of treatment exist, each of which is tailored to suit the individual needs of the patient.
Stream 1, Acute admissions
For patients that may be presenting to the service for the first time, this type of admission averages five weeks. An admission to the unit is required when a person is acutely unwell, physically and psychologically. Failure to progress in less intensive settings, such as an outpatient, would suggest that an inpatient stay is necessary.
Stream 2, Patients with severe, chronic illness
Patients who have suffered from an eating disorder longer term and have not responded to intensive inpatient treatment in the past are considered Stream 2. These are shorter admissions, usually two weeks in length, with a focus upon physical restoration and restabilisation of eating patterns.
Admission to the Inpatient Program is indicated by the following:
- diagnosis of anorexia, bulimia or other Eating Disorders varants
- the patient has not responded to outpatient or day patient treatment
- severe psychopathology and other mental health problems/issues
- medical instability
- inadequate social supports
The aims of an inpatient stay are:
- to restore health and well being
- to normalise eating patterns
- to engage the client in therapeutic relationships
- to provide psychoeducation
- to provide supported opportunities for the client to self challenge
Day Program
The Day Program is an intensive, group program. It is facilitated by a nurse and involves a variety of other clinicians. The program runs five days a week (Monday to Friday) and can accommodate up to six patients. The Day Program is suitable for patients that have not responded to less intensive forms of treatment but require the support of a specialist team on a day to day basis. A patient must be medically stable in order to be considered for the program. The ability to work within a group setting and a BMI of 17 and above are essential.
The aims of the day program are:
- to normalise eating behaviour and attitudes
- to restore weight to within the individual's healthy weight range
- to resolve issues associated with the development of an eating disorder
- to work towards acceptance of a healthy body size and shape
- to facilitate psycho-social maturation
Outpatient Clinic
The outpatient service provides treatment and support for patients newly referred to the service, as well as those that have accessed it over a period of time. Consultant psychiatrists, a psychiatry registrar and dietitian see patients for regular sessions.
Depending upon the patient's physical and psychological health, they may remain an outpatient of the Eating Disorders Program, require more intensive treatment by joining the Day Program or be admitted for an inpatient stay. The service aims to have patients linked up to private therapists and GPs for ongoing care.
Referrals
To make a referral, doctors need to call (03) 9342 4033 to receive a faxed referral form for completion.
Regions Serviced
The Royal Melbourne Hospital Eating Disorders Program accepts Referrals from the western metropolitan area, as well as the Loddon Mallee and Barwon South West regions. | 
