FOR DOCTORS

For Health Care Professionals

Eating disorder resources for health care professionals

We have programs that fit every patient, including children, teens, people with diabetes and people with substance use disorders. At Melrose Center, we support patients with award-winning nutritional, medical and psychological care.

Talking to your patient about eating disorders

Anyone, regardless of age, gender, size or weight, can have an eating disorder. But it can be hard to know what to say if you’re concerned that your patient might be struggling with disordered eating. Approach these conversations with your patients with kindness. Knowing they can talk to you without judgment can help your patient open up.

Remember, there isn’t a right or wrong way to start a conversation about eating disorders with your patient. But if you’re unsure what to say, use this list of questions as a guide:

  • Do you have a history of an eating disorder or disordered eating?
  • How do you feel about your eating?
  • How do you feel about your weight?
  • How much time do you spending thinking or worrying about your eating/body/weight/shape?
  • I see that you have a history of an eating disorder, can you tell me a little more about that? How are things going for you now?
  • I’m concerned about your recent weight loss/gain, can we talk more about that?

Signs and symptoms

Eating disorders can’t be diagnosed by looking at someone. Learning the signs and symptoms of eating disorders can help you know when to start the conversation with your patient. Common signs of eating disorders include:

  • Amenorrhea
  • Bradycardia
  • Chronic constipation
  • Dehydration
  • Fatigue
  • Hypoglycemia
  • Low heart rate
  • Obesity
  • Reflux or stomach complaints
  • Significant changes in weight
  • Stress fractures that won’t heal
  • Syncope
  • Unexpected growth chart changes

Call 952-993-5864 to refer a patient

Melrose Center provides timely access, and we’ll work with you to provide initial assessments that fit with your patient’s schedule. You can reach us at 952-993-5864 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Your patient can also call us directly, referrals aren’t required.

Fax patient information to 952-993-6685.

If you’re a patient, you can call 952-993-6200 to schedule an initial assessment.

Trainings and events

Melrose Center provides education and trainings for medical professionals. Contact the Melrose Center Outreach Department by calling 952-993-6555 or emailing melrose@parknicollet.com.

Other resources

We are accredited by The Joint Commission and are committed to providing outstanding care to all patients.