Thousands of South Australians will get access to tailored Medicare-subsidised treatment for eating disorders under a plan to be unveiled today.

Prime Minster Scott Morrison and Health Minister Greg Hunt will announce a $115 million package aimed at tackling anorexia that they have described as the deadliest mental health condition in Australia.

The subsidies could save sufferers up to $90,000 a year on their treatment.

The subsidies — worth $110 million over four years — will be complemented by $4 million to Australia’s National Research and Clinical Excellence Institute which is dedicated to improving the lives of those with eating disorders.

Mr Morrison said the illness was one of the many concerns parents have for their children. “It can strike and tear apart any home as it tries to rob the life and spirit of those dear ones afflicted,” he said.

“It is only right that we recognise these debilitating conditions within our Medicare system. It can’t be hidden. As a parent, I know we need to make this change.”

Under the plan, patients with severe and complex eating disorders will be able to access up to 40 psychological services a year, and up to 20 dietetic services from November 1 next year. The system will be Australia’s first dedicated Medicare service for people suffering severe eating disorders.

Currently, sufferers can only access more general Medicare items that allow for 10 psychological services and five dietetic services for people with mental illness or chronic disease.

Private treatment for eating disorders can cost patients between $20,000 and $90,000 a year. The plan is expected to benefit about 30,000 sufferers, each year.

“Eating disorders can have a devastating impact, not only on sufferers’ physical and mental health but also on their loved ones,” Mr Hunt said.

“For the first time, people can get a comprehensive treatment plan under Medicare.”

For patients to be eligible for the new eating disorders item, their doctor and mental health practitioner have to agree that they have a severe eating disorder. A care plan is then drawn up that can be reviewed halfway through and renewed if necessary.

Mr Hunt said the Institute’s $4 million would mean “better treatment for people with eating disorders, improved recovery rates, improved health, and improved lives”.