Progressing Cross-Sector Collaboration for People With Eating Disorders and Higher Weight: Priority Actions From an Expert Roundtable Using a Modified Nominal Group Technique.

Abstract

Eating disorders are more prevalent in people with higher weight than those with low weight. However, contention between the fields of obesity and eating disorders has prevented meaningful progress in research, prevention, identification and coordinated clinical services for people with co-occurring conditions. In Australia, public health approaches and provision of treatment services for people with eating disorders and clinical obesity are siloed, often resulting in contradictory messaging. To address this, a roundtable meeting was held in November 2024 in Sydney, Australia, with 28 experts in one or both of these fields, including researchers, clinicians and service leaders working across paediatric and adult care, and individuals with lived experience. Guided by the National Eating Disorders Collaboration stepped system of care framework, participants identified key challenges and possible solutions, and established five priority actions. The priority actions across sectors are: Health Campaigns focused on raising awareness of eating disorders at higher weight, using appropriate language and reducing weight stigma; improved Screening and Assessment using standardised protocols across healthcare settings; supporting Primary Healthcare and improving the use of Medicare items; Tailored Treatment Pathways including integrated care models; and building Workforce Capacity to upskill professionals to provide safe, person-centred care. These actions aim to promote improved cross-sector collaboration and effective, safe, coordinated and integrated approaches to prevention, identification and treatment across the fields of obesity and eating disorders. They address the complex medical and psychological needs of those with co-occurring eating disorders and higher weight or clinical obesity through a skilled workforce and improved access to care. Effective integration, collaboration and coordination across services is essential for long-term recovery support.