The Influence of Private Equity on Eating Disorder Treatment Centers

Abstract

This systematic literature review analyzes the influence of private equity (PE) firms in the landscape of residential eating disorder treatment. Given the absence of peer-reviewed research on this topic, this review broadens its scope to include an examination of research on residential treatment facilities serving other vulnerable populations, including nursing homes and substance abuse facilities, and the grey literature specifically focused on residential eating disorder treatment. The synthesis of findings aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of PE firm influence on critical aspects of eating disorder treatment. Following the synthesis, research and policy recommendations are proposed to address the identified issues in the findings.

Key themes explored in this review encompass the systematic preference for patients with specific insurance benefits and lower clinical complexity, discernible shifts in service provision after PE acquisitions, and differences in the quality of care in PE firm-owned healthcare facilities, such as staff-to-patient ratios. This review contributes to advancing the understanding of how the presence of PE shapes the landscape of residential eating disorder treatment by offering valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers.