Here are the top ten reasons to refer your patient to a registered dietitian (you can find specific ICD-10 codes here). Looking for an RD to work with? Contact us to find out how Choose Food dietitians can add value and improve patient outcomes at your practice.
1. Diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
An RD serves as an integral part of your health care team by helping your patient safely change their eating plan without compromising taste or nutrition or depending on restrictive, short-term diets
2. Digestive problems
A registered dietitian nutritionist will work with you and your patient to help your patient pinpoint food intolerances and avoid aggravating their condition with fried foods, too much caffeine or carbonation.
3. Pregnancy
A registered dietitian nutritionist can help make sure your patient gets nutrients such as folate, especially during the first three months of pregnancy, lowering their newborn’s risk for neural tube or spinal cord defects.
4. Breastfeeding
A registered dietitian nutritionist can help make sure your patient is getting enough iron, vitamin D, fluoride and B vitamins for themselves and their little one.
5. Issues with food
A registered dietitian nutritionist is an integral part of the healthcare team addressing eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating.
6. Weight gain or loss
A registered dietitian nutritionist can suggest additional calorie sources for your patient to achieve healthy weight gain or ways to make small, sustainable changes to achieve a negative energy balance, plus regular physical activity while still eating all their favorite foods.
7. Gastric bypass surgery
Since your patient’s stomach can only manage small servings, it’s a challenge to get the right amount of nutrients in their body. An RDN will work with you and your patient to develop an eating plan for their new needs.
8. Aging
A registered dietitian nutritionist can help with food or drug interactions, proper hydration, special diets for hypertension and changing taste buds as your patients age.
9. General nutrition information
A registered dietitian nutritionist can help your patient sort through misinformation. Your patient will learn how to read labels at the supermarket, discover how healthy cooking can be inexpensive, learn how to dine out without ruining their eating plan and how to resist workplace temptations.
10. Sports performance
A registered dietitian nutritionist can help your patient set goals to achieve results — whether they are running a marathon, skiing or jogging with their dogs.