Medicare Medical Nutrition Therapy

A new entitlement effective January 1, 2002, is available to those with Medicare Part B. Medical Nutrition Therapy is provided to help individuals who have diabetes or certain kinds of kidney disease, not needing dialysis. Medical Nutrition Therapy helps those with diabetes or kidney disease choose the types of foods that will help control or treat their illnesses.

The Nutrition Therapy Program Includes:
3 hours of consultation with a dietitian in the first year, unless a doctor requests more sessions.

The dietitian assesses your lifestyle and food preferences and helps you develop a meal plan.

The dietitian helps teach portion control, how to read labels and self-monitoring to help control diabetes and kidney disease.

Eligibility:

Individuals must:

• Have Medicare Part B (Outpatient Benefits)
• Be referred by a doctor
• Have diabetes and/or kidney disease - not needing dialysis

How Do I Find Out If I Qualify for Medicare Nutrition Therapy and Locate a Dietitian?

Talk to your doctor about nutritional needs based on your kidney disease and/or diabetes.

Determine if you meet the Medicare requirements by contacting Medicare.

If a dietitian has not been provided for to you, contact the American Dietetic Association for a listing of approved Medicare providers.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Medicare | 800-MEDICARE or 800-633-4227 | www.medicare.gov

American Diabetes Association: | 800-DIABETES or 800-342-2383 | www.diabetes.org

American Dietetic Association: | 800-366-1655 | www.eatright.org