Support and Resources for Parents
Parent Toolkit
- The National Eating Disorders Association provides a valuable web based “Tool Kit” for parents that offers a wealth of information about eating disorders, treatment options and insurance options.
Support Groups
These support groups are free and are provided by the WNYCCCED.
Location: Helen Wood Hall / School of Nursing, Loretta Ford Educational Wing, 255 Crittenden Boulevard, Rochester, NY 14642
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Eating Disorder Education & Skills Group
This group aids in the healing process by providing information about treatment and research, community awareness, problem-solving strategies, and challenges that develop during the course of treatment.
6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Meets every 1st, 2nd, & 3rd Wednesday of the month.
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Rochester Eating Disorders Network Support Group
The Eating Disorder Network is dedicated to providing support, services and programs for family and friends of loved ones with eating disorders.
6:30 – 8:00 p.m. Meets every 4th Wednesday of the month.
Suggested Reading
Treatment and Education Resources
Insurance
Once a course of treatment has been decided for you or your child, you have to understand insurance. If you are acting on behalf of a minor, and it is your child, you can usually act on their behalf without further permissions. If the individual you are trying to assist is over the age of 18, make sure that you have their signed permission in advance to contact the insurance company and medical providers on their behalf. The office will provide you with a consent form. Without signed consent, medical providers don't have the authority to release information.
Obtain a copy of the policy (either from your employer or directly from the insurance company). Every policy and plan is different. Read the policy, ask questions and take notes. Document the name of the person you talk to, the date and time, and the number that you called, along with detailed notes on the conversation.
After reading the policy once, re-read the sections focusing on behavioral health benefits. These may be couched as mental health benefits, but they refer to the same type of treatment. Also, note if dietician visits are covered, this may also be referred to as medical nutrition therapy or MNT. Look for specifics involving in-patient vs. out-patient vs. residential programs, as well as in-network vs. out of network limitations. Look for any preauthorization requirements for treatment. Some facilities have social workers who can assist you and are knowledgeable about insurance.
Don't be afraid to ask questions.
The National Association of Eating Disorders also provides useful information regarding insurance.