Turning the TIDE: Paediatric Provider Perspectives on Implementing a Transition Intervention for Eating Disorders

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Health
• Mental Health Services
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Specialized pediatric eating disorder (ED) programs face challenges in managing patient transitions to adult care.
• The Transition Intervention for Eating Disorders (TIDE) was developed to address these transition needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore pediatric providers' views on the acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness of the TIDE.
• To inform the refinement and implementation of TIDE in real-world clinical settings.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative Description study conducted in Ontario pediatric ED programs.
• Virtual focus groups with clinicians and administrative staff.
• Inductive analysis of transcripts using conventional content analysis.

Main Results:

• TIDE was perceived as valuable for addressing unmet transition needs.
• Providers recommended tailoring TIDE to developmental readiness, family structures, and local contexts.
• Feasibility concerns included staffing, time, and coordination; willingness to implement components was noted.

Conclusions:

• TIDE is a promising framework for improving care continuity for youth with EDs.
• Contextual adaptation and organizational support are crucial for successful TIDE implementation.
• Flexible delivery preserving core TIDE functions may enhance scalability.