Does Insurance Cover Dietitians?
Maintaining a healthy diet is an important part of overall well-being, and sometimes, we need a little extra guidance to make the right choices. Did you know that dietitian services (even for out-of-network providers) may be covered by your health insurance?
The extent of your coverage can vary depending on several factors, including your specific insurance plan and the network policies in your state. Insurance companies in Michigan generally do not panel with dietitians (except for Medicare), so you will expect to pay out of pocket. However, some will provide reimbursement if you see a dietitian as an “out of network” provider. In fact, we have many patients pursue this route and have all their services with us reimbursed. Here is a list of questions you can ask your insurance company to check coverage.
Make sure to write the answers you get down, and get a reference number for your phone call! And when you’re ready, schedule your first appointment with us!
Questions to ask your insurance provider to assess out-of-network Dietitian service coverage:
1. Are dietitian services covered for out-of-network providers for my plan?
2. For out-of-network dietitians, will a superbill be accepted for reimbursement?
2. Does my plan cover outpatient nutrition therapy CPT codes 97802 (medical nutrition therapy assessment), 97803 (medical nutrition therapy follow-up), or S9470 (nutritional counseling)?
3. Do I have any nutrition counseling visits covered under the preventative care portion of my plan (ICD-10 code z71.3)? If so, how many?
4. Do I currently have coverage for services provided via telehealth?
5. Do I need a physician referral? If yes, is there a specific form you provide or that needs to be submitted along with a superbill for reimbursement?
6. Do I have a deductible for nutrition counseling services? If so, how much is it and how much has been met so far?
7. Is there a copayment for each visit?
8. Is there co-insurance for each visit? If yes, what is the percentage of coverage?
9. What month does my policy year renew?
10. Are there any restrictions and/or limitations to my coverage?
Wow, I know that was a lot of questions- BUT, we want to make sure you have your bases covered when it comes to checking your benefits, since you are responsible for out-of-pocket costs even if a superbill is not accepted. Need more help checking if your insurance covers Dietitian services? Please reach out- we’re happy to help!
-Meghan
