The Columbia Center for Eating Disorders, a research program with a 30+ year history of treating individuals with eating disorders, is a special resource in this day and age of insurance-dictated treatment options.
As a result of some unique aspects of our program, we are able to offer a very valuable service and to partner with individuals interested in making a contribution to further scientific learning about eating disorders. But, the ways in which we are different from other treatment centers also make aspects of who we are and what we do a little bit confusing to understand. To give you a better sense of our mission and our program, click on the links below for answers to the 5 most commonly asked questions:
- “You’re a research hospital? What does that mean?”
- “Will I be receiving ‘real treatment’ or ‘research treatment’?”
- “If I participate in your research, does that make me a ‘guinea pig’?”
- “Do you have an age range? Do you see men?”
- “I’ve heard that I have to go off medication to come to your clinic. Is that always true? Why?”
Interested in learning more? Have a family member, friend, or patient who might need our help?
Call us directly at 646-774-8066. This is our main phone line, staffed by trained members of the Columbia team, who will ask preliminary questions to assess possible research eligibility and answer initial questions about our program. If the research and treatment options seem like a good match, further screening will be done. If it’s not the right fit, we can provide alternate referrals.
Photo credit: Creative Commons by Raymond Bryson
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[…] Misunderstandings, myths, and fears may keep someone who is otherwise interested from making the initial phone call to learn more about research opportunities at clinics like ours. Angela’s story illustrates some of the gaps in knowledge and communication that may exist between the worlds of clinical treatment and clinical research. Her story, like many others’ stories, emphasizes the need for continued dialogue among researchers, clinicians, and potential participants to bridge these gaps. […]