Feasibility and acceptability of comprehensive virtual treatment in eating disorders: perspectives from patients, parents and therapists during the COVID-19 pandemic.

BACKGROUND

Lockdowns and social distancing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic have brought about the need to continue treatment virtually in patients with Eating Disorders (ED).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate feasibility, acceptability and adherence to virtual treatment in patients, families and therapists.

METHODS

Fourteen patients, 10 family members and eight therapists from an intensive outpatient program for ED answered online surveys and a SWOT analysis was performed with the responses.

RESULTS

Virtual treatment during lockdown was considered feasible and useful by all respondents. Fear of contagion and the presence of parents in the home were identified as strengths. Parents reported problems with nutritional plan compliance, especially in anorexia patients. Therapists highlighted the importance of methodological adaptations in sessions to improve participation. Adherence to sessions was 100% for family members and 90% for patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Adaptation to a virtual program is a valid and useful option during lockdowns. It improves family participation, but does not replace face-to-face treatment.