Improving access to eating disorder care for veterans and underrepresented populations
Building an Equitable and Accessible System of Eating Disorder Care for VA, DoD, and Underrepresented Americans With Eating Disorders (EASED Study)
This study is testing whether online therapy or self-help tools work better to help veterans and active service members with binge eating disorder and bulimia feel better and eat healthier.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 144 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA Connecticut Healthcare System Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (West Haven, Connecticut) |
| Trial ID | NCT05304104 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to enhance access to evidence-based treatment for binge eating disorder and bulimia nervosa among active duty service members and veterans. It will compare the effectiveness of Telehealth Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TeleCBT) with Self-Help Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (shCBT) in reducing binge eating frequency and improving mental health outcomes. The trial will utilize state-of-the-art telehealth technology to provide treatment remotely, making it more accessible for participants. Additionally, qualitative methods will be employed to inform clinical practice guidelines for eating disorders within the VA system.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are veterans aged 18 and older diagnosed with bulimia nervosa or binge eating disorder.
Not a fit: Patients with active psychosis, high acute risk for suicide, or those with anorexia or atypical anorexia may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve treatment outcomes for veterans suffering from eating disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using telehealth approaches for mental health treatment, suggesting potential success for this novel application in eating disorders.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged 18 and older * Presence of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) Bulimia Nervosa (BN) or Binge Eating Disorder (BED) * Veteran Health Administration (VHA) user Exclusion Criteria: * Active psychosis or high acute risk for suicide * Medical or psychiatric illness, or cognitive deficits, that interfere with providing consent, completing assessments, or engaging in treatment for eating disorders * Pregnancy or lactation * Patients with suspected Anorexia or Atypical Anorexia will be excluded and referred to other VA care services
Where this trial is running
West Haven, Connecticut
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System — West Haven, Connecticut, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Robin M Masheb, PhD — VA Connecticut Research Department
- Study coordinator: Robin M Masheb, PhD
- Email: Robin.Masheb@va.gov
- Phone: 203-932-5711
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.