Eating Disorders

Homewood Health Centre offers the largest in-patient Eating Disorders Program in Canada. The program helps women and men aged 16 and older with Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa.

Anorexia Nervosa is characterized by drastic weight loss (15 per cent of body weight or more) from dieting which can lead to emaciation and compromised physical and psychological health. Bulimia Nervosa consists of constant changes in weight with episodes of binge eating followed by self-induced vomiting or purging with laxatives, diuretics, compulsive exercising, and periods of fasting. Some people may present with symptoms of both disorders.

These disorders can involve serious medical and psychological complications and require professional attention and care.

Admission Criteria

• A medical referral with a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa
• Patients must demonstrate some insight into their eating disorder and be motivated to participate in the recovery process
• Application material from both patient and referring physician is reviewed by an assessment team to determine suitability for the in-patient program
• Please note that the Eating Disorder Treatment Team must approve your admission application prior to being accepted to a waitlist.

Exclusion Criteria

• Medical instability, actively suicidal or alcohol/drug dependence
• Minimal body mass index must approximate 15
• Veganism

If you are interested in a referral to the Homewood Eating Disorders Program, please have your family physician or other health professional contact Admitting at (519) 767-3550. The admitting office can also answer questions regarding the referral process and waitlist.

For clinical information, please contact April Gates, Program Co-ordinator, at (519) 824-1010, ext. 2292.