Having a strong support network is an important component for any treatment plan, particularly a plan that aims to lead to recovery and includes anxiety and distress. If you or your family member is currently experiencing treatment for an ED, a Paediatrician can be beneficial for not only a child but for a teenager as well and therefore may be beneficial to integrate your Paediatrician into the treatment team. Generally, the best approach is a holistic approach for treatment plans including involvement and support from a parental figure, Paediatrician or a trusted doctor and a strong therapeutic relationship with a specialist team, however not all is required for a positive outcome.
Over the past several years, research has indicated that having a strong paediatrician can be very beneficial for treatment outcomes. The involvements of paediatricians in a treatment plan for adolescence that experience ED’s. With a focus on family-based therapy (FBT), the study examined the role paediatrician plays such as;
- Assisting with developing a potential diagnosis as well as communicate to the family the diagnosis, seriousness of diagnosis and recommends a clinician or speciality team for the start of a treatment plan.
- In FBT as well as other forms of therapies and treatment plans, a Paediatrician may act as a main point of contact for the family or even embrace a therapeutic role offering support.
- Provide information and support to the family to help build confidence and make informed decisions such a treatment plans.
- Support therapeutic team through delivering important information such as clinical observations, medical reports and other relevant information so the whole team is well informed.
- Be a supportive figure that helps remove blame from all parties and assists the family and individual throughout treatment and recovery.
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The clinical research came from the following sources:
The role of the paediatrician in family-based treatment for adolescent eating disorders: opportunities and challenges (D, Katzman, et. Al. 2013)
Engaging primary care providers in managing pediatric eating disorders: a mixed methods study (J, Lebow, et. Al. 2008)
What paediatricians should know about eating disorders in children and young people (L, Hudson., A, Court. 2012)
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