What are the referral criteria for specialist services for patients with eating disorders in the UK?

Refer immediately to an age-appropriate eating disorder service for further assessment or treatment if an eating disorder is suspected after an initial assessment ¹.

Urgency of referral depends on the specific clinical situation and on clinical judgement — if unsure, seek advice from a specialist eating disorders service, eating disorders or liaison psychiatry clinician, the local CAMHS service, or a paediatrician/physician ¹.

In cases where physical health is severely compromised, or there is a risk of serious physical or mental health complications such as suicide or self-harm, urgent referral and possibly emergency admission are indicated ¹.

Patients with extreme medical risk, organ failure, or rapid deterioration should be considered for inpatient care, with referral to specialist services for medical stabilisation and treatment ¹.