Treatment adherence and the care programme approach in individuals with eating disorders

Abstract

Aims and method: To examine service-level variables predicting treatment adherence in a specialist eating disorder unit. We analysed a sample of 157 individuals consecutively referred to the unit over an 18-month period. Associations were determined using odds ratios. Results: Individuals with a formal care programme at the point of referral were more likely to stay in treatment. Treatment adherence was not predicted by illness severity or waiting time. Follow-up by a dietician and acceptance of referral to a support group predicted better treatment outcomes. Clinical implications: Although the standard care programme approach may be relinquished in the UK, we recommend that this approach or its equivalent be used in specialist eating disorder services to improve treatment adherence.