Date of Publication

2021

Project Team

Chantel B. Tousignant, RN, DNPc, Jennifer Laurent, Ph.D., APRN, Sarah Howell, FNP

Abstract

Background: Estimated prevalence of Binge Eating Disorder (BED) in the United States is 2- 3%, and 5% in the primary care setting. BED is associated with multiple comorbidities and is therefore a public health concern. Effective strategies to improve screening, diagnosis and management exist, but are underutilized. This project aimed to enhance BED screening and diagnosis while optimizing disease management. Methods: Routine screening for BED was completed using the 7-Item Binge Eating Disorder Screener. Patients were screened regardless of visit type and follow-up was offered to those screening positive. BED prevalence was assessed pre and post-implementation. Surveys were used to determine patient demographics, current screening practices, resource needs and perceived project usefulness. Evidence based BED resources were created and disseminated to clinicians. Results: 229 patients were screened age 12-88 years with a BMI range of 16.3-64.6. 135 patients were female, 87 male and seven unreported. 92% identified as White/Caucasian. 38 screeners were positive, (16.6%) and 47% chose to receive follow-up. Disinterest was the main reason follow-up was declined. BED diagnoses increased from two to 12 practice-wide. Common comorbid diagnoses included hypertension, obesity and hypothyroidism. 85.7% of providers completed surveys. 67% of providers were more comfortable screening patients post-implementation and 83% reported using the BED resources. Conclusions: BED screening facilitates diagnosis and appropriate management leading to improved outcomes and increased awareness of BED and associated comorbidities. Additional study is needed to further evaluate BED prevalence and barriers to screening in this setting.

Document Type

Project

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