Q: Is a referral from my physician needed for nutritional counseling?
A: For filing insurance claims, a referral is needed. If paying out of pocket, a referral may not be needed. Your physician can print out a referral form from the Resources | Forms Tab. Any recent lab work, a list of medications, and most recent clinic notes are helpful to send with the faxed referral.
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Q: How long does the first session last?
A: The first counseling session typically lasts an hour. During this session, the dietitian will ask you questions such as what you are typically eating, your activity level, what medications you are taking, how often you eat out, how you prepare your food, and your past medical history. There is also a review of your current lab work (if available). A healthy diet is discussed with an emphasis on what you are trying to accomplish through diet changes. Together, you and the dietitian set goals to work on over the next few weeks.
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Q: What should I bring to my first counseling session?
A: Bring a list of your medications, your blood sugar record and meter (if applicable), and your insurance card. Please bring reading glasses, if needed. A record of what you have eaten in the past three days before the day of the appointment is also helpful.
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Q: How long are follow-up sessions and how often should I come back?
A: Follow-up sessions are usually 15 to 30 minutes. At these sessions, the dietitian weighs you, looks at your blood sugars (if applicable), reviews your progress with your goals, and sets future goals. Most clients come back two weeks after the initial session. Subsequent follow-up sessions could be set two to four weeks apart, depending on the client’s needs.
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Q: If my insurance may not cover the visit, can the claim still be filed?
A: Yes, the dietitian can file the claim for you. However, if the dietitian is out of network with your insurance, you will need to pay in full for the visit at the time of the visit. Medicare managed plans typically cover diabetes education even if the dietitian is out of network. Please contact the dietitian for information regarding this.
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Q: Do you provide any discounts for clients paying out of pocket?
A: Yes, package deals are available for three or six visit packages when paid in full at the initial visit. Insurance filing is not available when opting for a package deal. There are no refunds on package deals. Refer to services for more information on package deals.
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Q: What are my payment options if I’m paying out of pocket?
A: Cash, credit cards, debit cards, and checks are accepted. Documentation of the visit for a flexible spending account can be provided.
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Q: Will my physician receive a copy of the outcome of my nutritional counseling sessions?
A: Yes, your physician will be sent a summary of the first counseling session, including a list of goals you set. If needed, the dietitian will fax notes of follow-up visits, request lab work, or make recommendations.
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Q: Is there a charge if I miss a visit?
A: No, there is no fee charged for missed visits. However, you may have to wait over a month for your next visit if you do not notify the dietitian of your need to cancel 24 hours before the appointment time.