Private Practice - Precontemplation

Have you ever considered doing one-on-one nutrition counseling or Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)? Have you ever thought about running your own private practice? Now is the time to give it some thought. The healthcare landscape is changing and MNT is an important part of that new landscape. Whether in private practice, hospital outpatient services, or group clinical setting, MNT has become a part of 21st century medicine.

Since Medicare began paying for MNT in 2002, more and more payers are following their example. Medicare pays for just a limited number of conditions treated with MNT. However, many payers around the nation will pay for any reasonable condition when a physician prescribes MNT.

Consumers are realizing the advantage of a better lifestyle and quality of life. Consumers are willing to spend money to lose weight, improve their diet as they train for an endurance event or just learn how to eat healthier. They want value for their money and in this cost conscious environment it is the registered dietitian who provides the best value for the dollar. National health organizations are recognizing dietitians as the nutrition experts and the most qualified professionals to provide MNT.

Wages for nutrition and dietetic services have increased faster than inflation since 2005. Self-employed dietitians command very high median wages and very attractive upside potential. Insurance reimbursement and private payments for MNT services can vary from state to state but overall they are outstanding: $120 per hour and higher.

Running your own MNT private practice can be very rewarding but it requires a huge commitment. In MNT private practice, dietitians are required to keep confidential client records, document how the Nutrition Care Process is implemented, collect data from clients about their health status and lifestyle habits, collect and analyze clinical data, report results, create invoices and process insurance claims. It sounds like a lot of work but we have developed the MV Nutrition Professional Suite that can help you in carrying out these tasks effectively and efficiently.

Resources

Literature for Medical Nutrition Therapy from the ADA

Medical Nutrition Therapy and Medicare Information

Compensation and Benefits Survey 2007