1. When to See a Nutritionist
In most cases, a visit to a nutritionist or licensed dietician is occasioned by the recommendation of a doctor. He generally makes these referrals after certain blood tests are performed and your results have been abnormal. You may find that after doing some of your own research you want to schedule an appointment with a nutritionist. Be sure to talk to your doctor and let him know what you are thinking about doing and what symptoms relate to the problem. Your doctor may also help you find a nutritionist as well.
2. Coverage for Nutritional Advice Varies
While some insurance plans cover things like a visit to a nutritionist, most do not. Special cases and conditions may dictate the visit is medically necessary, such as a diabetes diagnosis, but most insurance plans don't include this valuable service. Call your insurance carrier and check what is covered before making the appointment; this way you'll know what out of pocket expenses you'll pay. You'll also know if your insurance plan requires a referral from your primary care doctor to cover the costs of your dietary assessment.
3. Will You Get Qualified Advice?
All nutritionists are required to have at least a bachelor's degree in dietetics, food service management, foods and nutrition or some related field. You may find some nutritionists or dieticians have graduate degrees as well, although this certainly isn't necessary. In order to understand how the intricacies of biochemistry work, your nutritionist takes courses such as biology, chemistry, physiology and biochemistry. What you need to know is that licensing and certification requirements vary by state. To find out more, visit the American Dietetic Association's (ADA) website (http://www.eatright.org/).
4. Get Your Own Dietary Care Program
Most nutritionists will develop what is called a dietary care program designed specifically for your needs. They will take any lab results, doctor's diagnosis and medical history and analyze them in light of what you tell them your health goals are. The nutritionist will then develop a plan to help you meet those goals with dietary and healthy lifestyle changes.
5. Follow Up Visits Are a Must
It is important to have this plan reassessed periodically by your doctor and nutritionist. Also make sure that all the health professional involved in your care communicate with one another. That way, when a problem develops, you have this cumulative knowledge working on the best solution for your care. Taking time to reassess your dietary care program also sheds light on what is working and what isn't.
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