Minister orders review of model of care for eating disorders

Mary Butler, the minister with responsibility for mental health, has sought a review of the the model of care for eating disorders 'following increases in population and the demand for services'. File picture:  Gerard McCarthy

A review of the model of care for eating disorders has been ordered, as plans to deliver 16 specialist teams across the country are almost two years behind schedule.

In January 2018, the HSE published a five-year model of care for community eating disorders, with a plan to have the specialist teams in place by 2023. 

However, this deadline has not been met.

According to the Department of Health, there are currently 11 teams in place — six for adults and five under the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (Camhs).

Now, Mary Butler, the minister with responsibility for mental health, has sought a review of the model, “following increases in population and the demand for services”.

A spokesman said: “Six new teams started in 2023, and in May 2024, Minister Butler announced the establishment of a new team, which will cover the area of Kildare/West Wicklow, Dublin West, Dublin South City and Dublin South West. This will bring the total number of eating disorder teams nationally to 12.” 

According to the Department of Health, there are approximately 100 posts funded under the overall model of care, with over 80 eating disorder clinicians, including 10 consultant psychiatrists, now treating people with eating disorders.

Budget priorities for 2025 discussed

A spokesman said: “Last month, Minister Butler met with the clinical leads of the national programmes and models of care to discuss budget priorities for 2025. 

"Following increases in population and the demand for services, a review of the model of care will be undertaken, and the HSE has advised the Department that preliminary work has commenced on the scoping of the review. 

"The outcomes of this review will inform the future development of teams and eating disorder teams’ staffing requirements from 2025 onwards.” 

The HSE has spent €8.1m on eating disorder services under the model of care implementation programme.

Minister Butler is firmly committed to enhancing specialist services for eating disorders, including improved access and shorter waiting lists.

The review is being undertaken by the National Clinical Programme for Eating Disorders, in collaboration with BodyWhys, the partner organisation to the programme, and other eating disorder stakeholders.

The spokesperson added: “It will be informed by consultation and engagement with service users.” 

Ber Grogan, policy and research manager of Mental Health Reform, said the organisation welcomes the review.

She said: "As evidenced in our 2025 pre-budget submission, demographic changes are a determinant in ensuring people can access the mental health services and supports that they need, where and when they need them."