Objective:
A retrospective chart review was conducted to investigate outcomes in children and adolescents who entered family-based treatment (FBT) in a tertiary eating disorders treatment setting that offers treatment across the continuum of care (i.e., outpatient, day treatment, and inpatient services).
Method:
Chart data were extracted for children and adolescents who received FBT during the study period (2010–2016).
Results:
A total of 62 individuals were included in the database, 51 of whom (82.3%) were underweight (i.e., less than 95% median body mass index) at FBT start. The majority of the sample (84.3%) who were underweight at FBT admission achieved at least partial weight restoration. A portion of the sample (21%) was discharged to a more intensive treatment (i.e., day treatment or inpatient care). Weight at FBT start was examined as a potential predictor of outcomes; however, those starting FBT at a lower weight were not more likely to require intensive treatment services.
Conclusions:
Overall, the study supports the effectiveness of FBT in a tertiary care setting, including for those starting FBT at a very low initial body weight (that is, less than 78% median body mass index). Implications for outpatient clinical care of pediatric eating disorders will be discussed.
Implications for Impact Statement
Family-based treatment (FBT) for pediatric eating disorders appears to be effective in real-world settings outside of controlled research trials. Children and adolescents who start FBT at a very low initial body weight are not more likely than those who start FBT at a higher body weight to require more intensive treatment (e.g., day treatment or inpatient admission). Initial body weight at FBT start does not appear to be a pertinent criterion for determination of FBT suitability.
