Emergency medicine physicians’ knowledge and perceptions of training, education, and resources in eating disorders

Abstract Background Feeding and eating disorders present with a variety of medical complications, some which may be life-threatening. Emergency Medicine (EM) physicians interact patients disorders, however, EM physicians’ knowledge perceptions resources for treating have not been examined. The purpose this study was to explore previous training/education, available resources, educational needs in practicing physicians. Methods An investigator-developed survey used cross-sectional pilot study, distributed Residency Program Coordinators the United States distribute residents. assessed training education diagnosing disorders. primary outcomes were participants’ training/education local patients, on topics related adult adolescent Data described descriptively SAS 9.4 analyze data. Results Of 162 participants, just 1.9% completed rotation during residency. Ninety-three percent unfamiliar American Psychiatric Association’s Practice Guideline Treatment Patients Eating Disorders; 95% publication, “Emergency Department management disorders” by Trent et al. majority aware including community online support groups, National Disorders Association, treatment programs. At least 50% agreed additional 15 19 examined would useful; 85% wanting assessment Department. Conclusions Most lack post-Emergency discharge. agree number beneficial, particularly Department, complications hospital admission criteria those