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For Providers

This section offers healthcare professionals clarity on when and how to refer patients for specialized eating disorder treatment, ensuring your questions about the referral and intake processes are thoroughly answered.

The Kahm Center in Vermont offers a holistic approach to treating eating disorders through its Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). A key component of our treatment strategy involves using metabolic testing and body composition analysis in conjunction with therapy and meal support. This comprehensive method not only aids in the precise identification of malnutrition levels but also allows for the creation of highly accurate meal plans tailored to the individual needs of our clients.

Metabolic testing at The Kahm Center is conducted regularly to monitor the progress of our patients, helping to ensure that their recovery from eating disorders is on the right track. By understanding a patient’s metabolic rate, we can accurately assess their malnourished and adjust their meal plans accordingly. This process is crucial for restoring a healthy metabolism and overall well-being.

On the other hand, body composition analysis offers a deeper insight into the recovery process beyond what traditional scale weight can provide. This method allows us to track the changes in body composition accurately, ensuring that our patients are not only gaining the necessary weight but are also improving their body composition healthily. This approach addresses the critical need for patients to nourish their brains adequately, which is essential for engaging in the therapeutic work required for recovery.

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Together, metabolic testing and body composition analysis form a powerful duo that accelerates the renourishment process, empowering patients with the knowledge and motivation to overcome their eating disorders. This integration of advanced testing with therapy and meal support underscores our commitment at The Kahm Center to providing a comprehensive and effective treatment plan for those struggling with eating disorders.

For healthcare professionals interested in referring patients or seeking more information about our outpatient programs, The Kahm Center offers detailed assistance and opportunities for collaboration. Our goal is to support individuals on their journey to recovery by providing them with the tools and resources necessary for a healthy, fulfilling life.

Research on Metabolic Testing and Body Composition Analysis

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Introduction to Eating Disorders for Wellness Professionals

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When is the right time to refer a patient to PHP/IOP?

One of the most common questions we get at the Kahm Center is when to refer a patient to us. This is certainly a complicated question, as eating disorders are nuanced and can look very different from person to person. Here are some scenarios where it might be appropriate to refer someone to the Kahm Center for an intake assessment:

The patient is showing a sudden increased intensity in eating disorder behaviors
The patient’s weight fluctuates dramatically as a result of eating disorder behaviors
The patient’s everyday life (socializing, work, academics, etc.) are being impacted by the disordered behaviors or disordered thoughts
The patient’s medical labs are outside of a normal range as a result of eating disorder behaviors

This is by no means an exhaustive list, and each patient’s experience will vary. If you are unsure about whether or not to refer a patient to the Kahm Center, give us a call and we can help you.

What does the referral and intake process look like?

There is no standard referral form for the Kahm Center and referrals can happen one of two ways:

A patient reaches out themselves to self-refer and seek treatment
A provider reaches out to refer a patient

Once initial contact with the Kahm Center has been made, we request basic information (address, insurance information, the names of the patient’s primary care provider and therapist, and reason for referral). Once we have been able to run a verification of benefits, we can schedule an intake assessment.

The intake assessment is an evaluation of the patient’s eating disorder performed by one of our clinicians. As a result of this evaluation, we can determine the most appropriate level of care for the patient:

Outpatient, for which we can refer to the Kahm Clinic or other therapists/dietitians
PHP or IOP, for which we would admit to the Kahm Center
Residential or Inpatient, for which we can refer to another facility providing this level of care

If we determine that the patient would be a good fit for a PHP/IOP level of care, we begin the admissions process and the patient can then be admitted to one of our programs.

How often will I receive communication about shared patient progress, and what happens when they are discharged from the Kahm Center?

We are happy to communicate with providers as frequently as you would like, as long as the patient has signed a release of information for you. Upon discharge, we send a full discharge summary to the patient’s providers with a full overview of the treatment stay and progress on the patient’s goals.

How quickly can a patient be assessed after initial contact?

A standout advantage of choosing the Kahm Center is our rapid intake assessment process. Unlike the extended waiting periods often encountered when seeking therapy appointments, which can span several months, we prioritize quick access to care. Typically, we can schedule intake assessments within a few days from the initial point of contact. This expedited process is designed to ensure that those in need of our services can receive timely support and begin their journey to recovery without unnecessary delays. This efficiency not only accelerates the path to treatment but also signifies our commitment to providing accessible, immediate care to our clients.

How soon can a patient receive a diagnosis, and what are the costs?

At the Kahm Center, we understand the urgency and confusion that can accompany the decision to seek help for an eating disorder. That's why we offer a swift diagnosis process. For individuals uncertain about the severity of their eating concerns, our approach provides rapid clarity. Following the initial assessment, if our specialized level of care aligns with the patient's needs, we promptly recommend the appropriate treatment pathway. Conversely, if our services do not best suit their situation, we are equally transparent in our guidance. This immediate, no-cost diagnostic service stands in stark contrast to the lengthy waits often associated with securing a first appointment elsewhere, offering a quick, decisive step towards recovery.

Have More Questions As a Provider?

If you're a healthcare professional with further questions, the Kahm Center is committed to providing you with comprehensive support and detailed information to assist in the care of your patients. Whether you need clarity on our programs, referral procedures, or have specific concerns about patient care, we invite you to contact us. Our expert team is on standby to address your inquiries, ensuring you have the necessary resources to guide your patients towards their recovery journey.

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