Family-Centered and Community-Focused
Family members, friends, teachers, coaches, clergy and other significant people in your patient’s life are considered part of the treatment team, as appropriate. We work closely with families to identify strengths in both the patient and the family to develop behaviors that support recovery within the family unit. Community resources to enhance a patient’s well-being are also utilized.
The full range of comprehensive coordinated and integrated pediatric eating disorder services available has made Golisano Children’s Hospital the only pediatric unit designated by the New York State Department of Health as a Comprehensive Care Center for Eating Disorders.
Outpatient Clinic
Most patients are seen in our outpatient clinics and hospitalization is only required in the most severe circumstances.
Typically initial appointments are 90 minutes and follow up visits are between 20 and 60 minutes, depending on the needs of the patient. At the initial appointment patients receive a full health evaluation that includes:
- A detailed medical history, physical examination and laboratory tests that help provide a full diagnostic picture
- An in-depth evaluation of nutritional intake, requirements
- An assessment of individual and family strengths, and any areas of special sensitivity or vulnerability
- Determination of coping styles, mood, anxiety and sources of stress
Inpatient Care
Team Approach to Care
If an eating disorder is diagnosed our interdisciplinary team implements a comprehensive, care plan for bulimia or anorexia nervosa that includes:
- Medical monitoring and treatment
- Education about the illness
- Methods of treatment
- Nutritional counseling
- Support group information
- Outpatient group therapy
- Mental health therapy for the individual and family, which is fundamental to the treatment of eating disorders
- Connections to specialists