For GPs

Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plans: what GPs need to know

In Australia, people experiencing an eating disorder can access mental health treatment either through an Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plan (EDP) or a Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP). Dietetic treatment can be accessed through an EDP or a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Plan. For people accessing care for eating disorders or other mental health concerns, these plans aim to ensure consistent, affordable and coordinated care.

What does an EDP provide?

People who are eligible for an EDP can access comprehensive treatment and management services, including:

·       assessment and treatment planning

·       up to 40 sessions of evidence-based psychological treatment from a mental health professional

·       up to 20 sessions of dietetic treatment from an accredited practicing dietitian (as recognised by Dietitians Australia)

·       review and ongoing management to support access to the appropriate level of care.

People with a clinical diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, or people who meet the eligibility criteria and have a clinical diagnosis of bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder (BED) or other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED) are eligible for an EDP.

What does this mean for GPs?

A GP, consultant paediatrician or consultant psychiatrist can develop an EDP and act as the managing practitioner. Developing an EDP involves assessment, treatment planning and coordination of care, so allowing additional appointment time can help ensure there is sufficient opportunity to discuss the person's needs and develop an appropriate plan.

Want to know more?

The NEDC Eating Disorder Treatment and Management Plans webpage provides information, resources and tools to support GPs to develop and manage EDPs.

NEDC has a factsheet for people seeking treatment, outlining the services available under an EDP, including the care team members, the steps involved in developing an EDP, and how to access the sessions.