Rep. Rob Wittman Staffer (VA-01) Tours Veritas Collaborative’s Richmond Eating Disorder Clinic
Christina Whitehouse, district representative for U.S. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01), toured the Richmond, Va., location of Veritas Collaborative, a specialty healthcare system for the treatment of eating disorders.
Christina Whitehouse, district representative for U.S. Congressman Rob Wittman (VA-01), toured the Richmond, Va., location of Veritas Collaborative, a specialty healthcare system for the treatment of eating disorders. Whitehouse explored the medical and outpatient services facility in Henrico County on August 22 and met with Executive Director Elisha Contner Wilkins along with other key members of the Veritas Collaborative staff to discuss important issues facing individuals and families affected by eating disorders.
As part of her visit, Whitehouse talked with Veritas team members about insurance regulation, treatment cost before and after the Affordable Care Act, and new legislation that would expand TRICARE access for servicemembers and their families. She also stopped by the Veritas kitchen to gain a hands-on understanding of meal preparation for those on the journey to recovery.
“Recovering from an eating disorder is difficult work for individuals and the family support systems that walk with them through the process,” said Whitehouse. “As a mental health advocate, Rep. Wittman believes assistance in the recovery process must be addressed, and access to care is at the heart of this conversation. As a supporter of the 21st Century Cures Act, Rep. Wittman understands that families need affordable, accessible, science-based treatment for those suffering from mental health problems.”
“Eating disorders can be life threatening, and they affect the entire family, which is why we are so thankful for the opportunity to speak with Ms. Whitehouse about our unique multidisciplinary approach to recovery,” said Stacie McEntyre, founder, president, and chief executive officer for Veritas Collaborative. “We are committed to driving the standard of care in eating disorders treatment so individuals and families from all walks of life can thrive. Our continued work to increase access to care and break down barriers to that care means we must collaborate with our community and elected officials to create positive outcomes for families battling this disease.”
Eating disorders are complex, psychiatric illnesses that stem from a variety of genetic, biological, and environmental factors, for which there is no single cure. Approximately 30 million individuals across the U.S. suffer from eating disorders, and despite common misconceptions, eating disorders can affect anyone regardless of gender, age, race, ethnicity, body shape or weight, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. The average age of onset is 12-years-old.