Effect of a specialist disorders service on the knowledge and attitudes of local health professionals

Abstract

This study investigated the effect of a specialist eating disorders service on the attitudes and knowledge of local healthcare professionals. A questionnaire was sent to fully qualified psychiatrists, postgraduate trainees in psychiatry and general (internal) medicine, general practitioners (family physicians) and dietitians in two comparable cities: Leicester (which had a specialist eating disorders service) and Nottingham (which did not). Psychiatrists in training in Leicester had a greater knowledge of eating disorders than those in Nottingham. There was greater satisfaction with services in Leicester but no difference in attitudes. The presence of a local eating disorders service enhances postgraduate training and increases knowledge.