Patient-Centered Care: The Anchor in a Changing Industry

By Brenda Velissaris LPC-S NCC CEDS-C CCTP CSC , Clinical Director at EDCare

Just like the broader healthcare industry, the landscape of eating disorder treatment is undergoing a transformative shift. As private equity firms take control of more treatment centers,?consolidations and closures are leaving patients and their families grappling with uncertainty. We have also seen increasing reports of patient dissatisfaction and even mistreatment, sparking concern across the industry.?

As the industry evolves, it is essential that we don’t lose sight of what truly matters: keeping patient care at the heart of everything we do. At EDCare, this principle drives our commitment to providing ethical, compassionate care that empowers our patients to achieve lasting recovery.

A Patient-Centered Philosophy in a Changing Industry

As private equity becomes more common, many treatment centers now operate under business models that prioritize profits over patients, leading to cookie-cutter programs and diminished patient trust. Amid this increasing corporatization of healthcare, we must hold fast to the core values of respect, dignity and individualized care.?

As a privately held organization, EDCare has the freedom to place patient well-being above financial gain, ensuring that every decision we make aligns with our mission to support individuals on their recovery journey.

Our patient-centered philosophy is grounded in the belief that safety extends beyond physical well-being, requiring an environment built on trust, respect and emotional support to foster holistic recovery. From the moment a patient walks through our doors, their unique needs, values and preferences guide every aspect of their treatment.

Holistic Safety: The Foundation of Ethical Care

At EDCare, we take a holistic view of patient safety, encompassing physical, emotional, and relational dimensions. This comprehensive approach creates a foundation for meaningful recovery.

• Physical Safety: Our programs ensure patients are free from harm or injury during care, with proactive measures to prevent self-harm, maintain medical stability and address physical health risks. Robust staffing ratios and attentive care provide an added layer of security.
• Emotional Safety: Healing begins in an environment where patients feel respected, understood, and free to express themselves without fear of judgment. Clear communication, empathy and consistent support help us build trust and foster emotional resilience.
• Relational Safety: Recovery is deeply relational. We nurture connections between patients, their care team and their families, emphasizing trust and open communication. These relationships provide a network of support essential for long-term success.

Balancing Growth with Integrity

In an industry where rapid growth often comes at the expense of quality care, EDCare’s approach to expansion is deliberate and intentional. As our new Residential Eating Disorder Treatment Program in Denver, Colorado opens, we are committed to maintaining the same level of individualized, patient-focused care that defines all of our programs. This includes maintaining small caseloads to ensure personalized attention, and tailoring treatment plans to honor each patient’s unique journey.

Our residential program exemplifies this approach. Unlike traditional live-in facilities, we offer a model that mirrors a standard daily routine. Patients attend therapy and meals at our state-of-the-art facility during the day and return to tranquil, off-site residential housing in the evening. This balance fosters a sense of normalcy and prepares patients for real-life challenges while ensuring continuous support and safety.

A Commitment to Listening and Improving

Patient voices are integral to shaping the care we provide. At EDCare, we encourage open communication and are proactive in addressing concerns. A dedicated Patient Rights Advocate ensures that every patient feels heard, and our leadership team actively incorporates feedback from patients, families and the community into meaningful improvements.

This commitment to growth is rooted in our belief that recovery is a partnership. Our patients bring expertise in their own lives, while our clinical team provides specialized knowledge and guidance. Together, we create personalized goals and a roadmap that reflects the patient’s vision of recovery. This collaborative approach ensures that each individual feels valued and supported every step of the way.

Reassuring Hope for the Future

As? eating disorder treatment providers face growing challenges, EDCare remains steadfast in our commitment to ethical, compassionate care. Our approach prioritizes patient dignity, choice and safety, creating a foundation for sustainable recovery. With the launch of our residential program, we are reaffirming our dedication to providing innovative, patient-centered treatment in a changing world.

To anyone considering treatment, know this: at EDCare, your well-being comes first. We are here to listen, to support, and to help you achieve the recovery you deserve. Our goal is to build a future where ethical care and patient empowerment remain the guiding principles of eating disorder treatment. We take pride in partnering with every one of our patients on their recovery journey, working together to help them achieve lasting success with compassion and care.

EDCare offers free, confidential assessments and in-network with most major insurances - including Colorado Medicaid and TRICARE? West. Housing is also available!

Contact your local EDCare center today for more information!