If you are concerned about your overall health, then you may want to meet with a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) for an individualized meal plan or medical nutrition therapy. An RDN is a food and nutrition professional that has earned a professional designation of RDN from the Commission on Dietetic Registration and licensed by the state of ND. A registered dietitian nutritionist is your most credible source of nutrition information.
What is outpatient Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)?
Medical Nutrition Therapy is a service provided by a registered dietitian nutritionist who has the knowledge in nutrition and disease management to work with individuals who have specific needs. Areas of expertise include, but are not limited to: cardiovascular (high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high triglycerides), diabetes, prediabetes, food allergies, celiac disease, gastrointestinal disorder, kidney disease, cancer, weight management, bariatric, childhood and adolescent nutrition.
Will insurance cover visits to RDNs?
Please check with your individual insurance company for authorization prior to your first visit to see if your specific medical condition is covered for MNT. Examples of coverage from companies such as Blue Cross Blue Shield or Medicaid include, but are not limited to, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, eating disorders, diabetes, renal failure and obesity. Coverage for Medicare includes diabetes and renal failure.
How long is a counseling session?
Typically, the initial session is an hour to fully assess nutritional needs and begin goal setting. Follow up appointments are available from 15-60 minutes sessions depending on your needs.
Do I need a doctor’s referral?
A doctor’s referral is necessary for all appointments. It gives the RDN the medical information needed to plan an appropriate and individualized counseling session, and is also necessary to receive insurance reimbursement.
How do I schedule an appointment?
Once the referral is obtained, appointments are scheduled through the Center for Diabetes and Nutrition Education scheduling department. Please call (701) 857-5268 to schedule your appointment.
How much will it cost?
Fees vary depending on the length of service provided. With a physician’s referral, your health insurance can be billed. Contact your insurance company to discuss your benefits. Financial arrangements and payment plans are available through the Trinity Business Office.
What should I bring to the first visit?
Bring a list of any vitamins, minerals, or herbal products being used, a list of any food allergies, 3 day food record of food consumed during the day with time eaten, food type and quantity of each food item.