“We’re here to connect patients to the resources they need to create a better life for themselves, while also helping referring providers ascertain the best next step,” notes Kathryn Guiry, MA, NCC, LPC, Clinical Manager of Outpatient Admissions. “In fact, sometimes providers and patients call together.”
The intake process begins with an in-depth assessment with a trained clinician who gathers information in a supportive, comfortable manner while providing education, guidance, and hope. Guiry and the Admissions team review assessments and ensure that the care plan process is seamless for patients and staff alike.
“We help put patients on the path to a healing journey, which starts with listening,” adds Guiry. “It’s an honor to be involved in people’s stories and get them to the right place. In situations where that’s not our own care programs, we’ll guide them to other resources.”
The Admissions Department receives more than 100 calls a day, with about one-third focused on eating disorders. Call volume continues to increase as Admissions and the Princeton Center for Eating Disorders team continue education around the concept that patients who are appropriate for care may fall outside of more traditional evaluation criteria.
Changing Reliance on BMI
Patients often call Admissions and ask whether they’ll be rejected based on their BMI.
“It’s disheartening that this is one of their first concerns, as it demonstrates how an overreliance on this parameter is still mainstream,” says Guiry. “A patient’s BMI is just one clinical marker. Focusing on the bigger picture is integral to getting the care that’s needed.”
The Admissions team is working on initiatives to enhance awareness among patients, providers, and insurance companies on this front.
“Some patients may not appear to have an eating disorder yet could be very malnourished,” adds Guiry. “We’re educating internal and external audiences about the importance of taking the focus off of BMI and putting it back on the overall needs of each patient.”
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To make a referral, call 888-437-1610, option 3, or fax to 609-683-6840. |