Provider Partners: When to Refer to a Higher Level of Care

Eating disorders carry one of the highest mortality rates of all mental illnesses. When a client may need additional structure beyond outpatient treatment, a higher level of care may be best suited for sustained recovery. These levels of care, including Residential, Day, and Intensive Outpatient Treatment, can be conceptualized like a ladder, with each rung representing a different degree of support.

This presentation will review the complexity of eating disorders, various assessment tools, and the behavioral and medical guidelines for determining an appropriate level of care. Special consideration will be given to the importance of a multidisciplinary team, the referral process, and expectations for programming at each of these higher levels of care.

By discussing a comprehensive range of treatment levels, we can meet clients where they are, and support them every step of the way forward, including when they return to your care, to continue the important work of recovery.