General Practitioners (GPs) play a vital role in the detection, diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders.

The trusted role of a GP means that they are often in the best position to recognise the potential physical, psychological and behavioural signs of an eating disorder in their patients. However, many people who present to their GP may not be forthcoming with the symptoms, thoughts or behaviours that they are experiencing, or may present with other apparently unrelated complaints. This requires GPs to always be alert to the possibility of an eating disorder.

GPs have a range of tools at their disposal to help with the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders. This includes screening questionnaires, physical assessment and laboratory investigations. A non-judgmental and weight-neutral approach with patients will also help facilitate accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.

Changes introduced by the Australian Government on November 1st 2019 mean that some patients with eating disorders will have access to an evidence-based, best practice model of treatment.

This is known as an Eating Disorder Plan (EDP) and involves Medicare subsidies for 20 sessions with a dietitian and up to 40 sessions with a mental health clinician over a 12 month period.

To understand more about the MBS item numbers for eating disorders and how GPs can support patients to access treatment, please see the below key resources.

Due to the complex nature of eating disorders, it is highly recommended that GPs undertake additional training to support their knowledge base.

Eating Disorder Core Skills: eLearning for GPs

• RACGP accredited
• ACRRM accredited
• 40 CPD points
• Online – 5 modules, self-paced
• Free with NEDC membership (free to join)

Eating Disorder Core Skills: eLearning for GPs is comprehensive foundational eating disorder training developed specifically for GPs. The training provides GPs with the key information needed to provide best practice care for patients with eating disorders.

The training will equip GPs with the knowledge and skills needed to understand, identify and assess eating disorders, provide medical treatment, lead the multidisciplinary team, manage MBS items and provide ongoing recovery support.

This four-hour, self-paced and interactive online training includes practical real-life scenarios and activities, videos from leaders in the field and people with a lived experience of an eating disorder, up to date resources and a formal assessment.

This training has been developed by the National Eating Disorders Collaboration (NEDC) and is available free for GPs.