Background/objectives: Autistic individuals with eating disorders (ED) face socio-emotional, sensory, and communication difficulties that influence engagement and treatment outcomes. We examined how the PEACE Pathway-an autism-informed approach to ED treatment-addresses these challenges through tailored adaptations in clinical care.
Methods: A qualitative multiple case studies design was employed, drawing data from clinical documentation, stakeholder feedback, and service evaluations.
Results: We identified eight core domains essential for implementation: pathway knowledge, assessment and planning, psychological interventions, sensory management, nutritional care, lived-experience feedback, family/community engagement, and staff training. These domains informed the development of the PEACE Self-Assessment Checklist to support the wider adoption of the pathway.
Conclusions: The PEACE Pathway offers a structured approach to adapting ED treatment for autistic individuals. The checklist provides practical guidance for implementing autism-friendly adaptions.
Keywords: PEACE pathway; autism; eating disorders; implementation; reasonable adjustments.