Your physician may one day recommend you see a nutritionist to teach you how to make better food choices, particularly if you've been newly diagnosed with diabetes or another illness that could respond to diet and lifestyle changes. Look for a registered dietitian, an RD, who has graduated from a four-year college, completed an internship and passed the American Dietetic Association registration exam. The title nutritionist may be used by a variety of people -- from those with a master's degree in nutrition to those who have no formal education.
Step 1
Ask for a recommendation. Word of mouth is still a great way to find a doctor. Ask your physician, family and friends -- especially anyone who has a similar medical condition. Consider what you're looking for in an RD: how far away is his office, how long do you have to wait for an appointment and how experienced is he in your specific medical condition.
Step 2
Check with your insurance company for a list of dietitians that accept your health plan coverage. Paying out-of-pocket to see a dietitian on a regular basis may get expensive.
Step 3
Contact the American Dietetic Association for a list of registered dietitians in your area. Include your city, state and zip code, as well as any area of expertise you require.
Step 4
Look for an online rating or review of the dietitian you are planning to see. Several sites, including Angie's List, now rate doctors and health care practitioners as well as plumbers and electricians. Online reviews can be useful if you are choosing the doctor from a list without a personal recommendation. Look for a doctor with multiple reviews, which will give you a well-rounded picture.
Tips and Warnings
- Set up an initial consultation with the dietitian, even if it's just a quick phone conversation, to see if you're a good match. You don't have to continue to see a doctor you don't like.
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