In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the United States witnessed a significant surge in eating disorders, particularly among teenagers, as hospital visits doubled from 2019 to 2022. Unfortunately, the escalating costs associated with treatment centers created a barrier for many individuals seeking quality care. Addressing this gap in accessible care, Equip emerged as a groundbreaking solution—a fully online eating disorder treatment platform that has now become the largest provider in the country.
Founded by Kristina Saffran, Equip took a unique approach by basing its model on evidence-based and community-oriented principles, specifically drawing inspiration from family-based therapy. Saffran, who personally benefited from this approach during her own struggle with anorexia as a teenager, designed Equip to prioritize connectivity and support for patients aged 6 to 24.
Equip’s innovative strategy involves assigning each patient a dedicated five-person team to coordinate their care. This team-based approach aims to foster a sense of community and provide comprehensive support for individuals grappling with eating disorders. By leveraging technology, Equip has successfully expanded its reach to operate in all 50 states by 2022.
As Equip celebrates its impactful journey over the past year, it stands as a testament to the power of adapting evidence-based practices to the evolving landscape of healthcare. In a time when traditional treatment options faced challenges, Equip’s online platform has not only filled a crucial void but has also emerged as a beacon of hope for those in need of effective, structured care for eating disorders across the nation.
