The study aims to investigate whether FBT delivered via telemedicine in a stepped care approach (FBTSCM) can serve as an effective alternative to inpatient multimodal therapy (IMT) for patients with severe AN. The main outcome examined is change in body weight over 12 months. Other important outcomes include improvements in psychopathology, i.e. the thoughts and behaviours that characterise AN. Additional measures include quality of life, treatment safety and satisfaction, family dynamics, the emotional burden on caregivers and treatment costs.

 

If FBTSCM proves to be as effective as IMT, it could be eligible for funding by public health insurers in the future and become available to many affected people in Germany as a new, evidence-based therapy. This would not only expand treatment options, but could also alleviate burden on the healthcare system. If the results of the FIAT study are positive, it could help to sustainably improve care for affected young people and their families in Germany.