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

Abstract

Objective: This qualitative study aimed to explore paediatric providers' perspectives on the acceptability, feasibility, and appropriateness of the Transition Intervention for Eating Disorders (TIDE) within existing specialised paediatric eating disorder (ED) programs to inform its refinement and implementation in real-world clinical settings.

Method: A Qualitative Description study was conducted in Ontario paediatric ED programs; clinicians and administrative staff participated in virtual focus groups and transcripts were analysed inductively using conventional content analysis.

Results: Twenty-four staff from five Ontario paediatric ED programs participated. TIDE was viewed as valuable and addressing unmet transition needs. Providers endorsed its components but emphasised tailoring to developmental readiness, family structures, and local service contexts. Peer support, structured transition meetings, navigation resources, and primary care involvement were seen as beneficial. Feasibility concerns centred on limited staffing, time, and coordination infrastructure, with many indicating willingness to implement selected components rather than the full model.

Conclusions: TIDE was considered a promising framework, but successful implementation depends on contextual adaptation and organisational support. Flexible delivery that preserves core functions of TIDE may enhance its scalability and improve continuity of care for youth transitioning to adult ED services.