Sometimes patients just need the help of a dietitian. A registered dietitian can approach obesity through either medical nutrition therapy or nutrition education.
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) involves registered dietitians treating medical conditions such as obesity through the use of nutrition assessment and intervention techniques. This also includes patient education. The dietitian uses the patient’s medical history, a physical examination, and a dietary history to develop an appropriate plan. The plan is reviewed with the patient, and the patient is monitored at regular intervals to determine progress made and the need for modifications to the plan.
Patients needing MNT for diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol or lipids, obesity or other medical conditions requiring special diet accommodations can see a registered dietitian at any of the Weight Management Institute’s six locations. MNT requires a physician referral, which can be provided by your primary care provider or by first seeing one of the Obesity Medicine Specialists at the Weight Management Institute.
Patients that do not have a condition which qualifies them to use their MNT insurance benefit, or who do not have insurance, can still see a registered dietitian for a Nutrition Education appointment for a low out-of-pocket fee. Nutrition Education is a less intensive approach to treating obesity, but is also provided by a registered dietitian. The focus is on educating the patient regarding topics such as meal planning, nutrient content, portion sizes, and label reading. A physician referral is not needed for nutrition education.
Talk to your doctor if you are interested in MNT with a dietitian at any of our six Weight Management Institute's locations, or call the Summa Health Weight Management Institute’s dedicated line (330.375.6201) for OP Nutrition Services to discuss an appointment for MNT or Nutrition Education.
Patients seeking the services of a dietitian for conditions other than weight loss are also welcome.
