What is Medical Nutrition Therapy?
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Medical Nutrition Therapy, or MNT, is a “nutritional diagnostic, therapy, and counseling service for the purpose of disease management which is furnished by a registered dietitian or nutrition professional. MNT is a specific application of the Nutrition Care Process in clinical settings that is focused on the management of diseases.”
Inpatient Medical Nutrition Therapy
Medical Nutrition Therapy is provided by a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) to hospitalized patients identified as high nutritional risk. The RDN completes a comprehensive dietary assessment and works with the medical team to assess each patient’s needs and develop an individualized plan to address nutrition-related problems. Individualized dietary instruction is provided as needs are identified to help patients better understand the role of nutrition in healing and long term health. Patients requiring additional education following discharge from the hospital may be referred by their physician for outpatient medical nutrition therapy.
Outpatient Medical Nutrition Therapy
Outpatient Medical Nutrition Therapy is available for patients who are referred by their physician. During outpatient MNT, a patient will meet one-on-one with the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at which time a comprehensive dietary assessment is completed. This information, in addition to pertinent labs, medication, physical signs and symptoms, and more are used to develop an individualized nutrition plan. Individuals may benefit from Medical Nutrition Therapy for wide variety of conditions, such as:
- Diabetes – Type 1, Type 2, Gestational
- Prediabetes
- Obesity and Weight Management
- Cardiovascular Disease
- High Cholesterol
- High Blood Pressure
- Gastrointestinal Disorders
- Cancer
- Pulmonary Disease
- Kidney Disease
- Liver Disease
- Food Allergies and more
Medical Nutrition Therapy, ordered by a physician, is covered by a variety of insurance plans. Under the Medicare Part B program, recipients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, non-dialysis kidney disease and post renal transplant (6 to 36 months) are eligible to receive Medical Nutrition Therapy. In addition, Medicare Part B recipients may be eligible for Intensive Behavior Therapy for Obesity if criteria is met. Some Medicaid plans will also cover MNT services. Individuals with private insurance are encouraged to check with their insurance plan for specific medical nutrition therapy coverage details. It is recommended that you verify your insurance coverage before receiving nutrition counseling. Your dietitian can provide you with codes that are needed to verify your insurance coverage.
For more information on Medical Nutrition Therapy, or to schedule an appointment, call Pam Dove, RDN at 906.524.3449.
