Grand Rapids Dietitian Who Takes Insurance: How to Use Your Benefits for Nutrition Counseling
Why Work With a Registered Dietitian?
A registered dietitian (RD) is a healthcare professional with specialized training in nutrition science, clinical care, and medical nutrition therapy. We’re different from “nutritionists,” which isn’t a regulated term, meaning anyone can call themselves one without formal training.
Because RDs are licensed healthcare providers, many insurance companies cover our services. It’s evidence-based, preventive care that can help improve your overall health and lower your risk for chronic conditions.
Insurances I Accept
I currently accept:
Blue Cross Blue Shield / Anthem BCBS
Cigna
Aetna
UnitedHealthcare
I see clients in person in Grand Rapids, MI and virtually in AL, AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, MA, MI, NJ, NY, TX, & VA. If you’re unsure about your plan, I can check your benefits for you for free before you schedule, just send me a message!
How Insurance Coverage Works for Nutrition Counseling
Insurance coverage for nutrition counseling typically falls into two categories:
Preventive care — Many plans cover nutrition counseling 100% when it’s considered preventive (for example, improving overall health, weight management, or reducing disease risk).
Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) — Coverage may also apply if you have certain health conditions like:
Diabetes or prediabetes
High cholesterol or blood pressure
PCOS or other hormone-related issues
Overweight or obesity
Digestive conditions
How to Check Your Benefits
I can check your benefits for free, just send me a message! Otherwise, here’s exactly what to do to find out if you’re covered:
Call the member services number on the back of your insurance card.
Ask the following questions:
“Is Tristin Geschwender (NPI: 1538745807) currently an in-network provider for my plan? If not, what are my out-of-network benefits?”
“Does my plan cover outpatient nutrition therapy CPT codes 97802 (medical nutrition therapy-assessment), 97803 (medical nutrition therapy- follow-up), or 99401-99404 (preventative counseling)?”
“Do I need a referral from my physician?”
“Do I have a deductible for nutrition counseling services? If yes, how much is it and how much has been met?”
“Is there is a copayment or coinsurance? If yes to either, what is the cost?”
“How many sessions are covered per year?”
“What month does my policy renew?”
What to Expect at Your First Session
Your first appointment is all about you.
We’ll:
Review your medical history, lifestyle, and eating habits
Discuss your goals and any challenges you’ve faced
Create a personalized nutrition plan that works for your schedule, preferences, and health needs
Outline next steps and schedule follow-up sessions for accountability and adjustments to your nutrition plan
Why Start Now
The sooner you get personalized nutrition guidance, the sooner you can see results like better energy, weight loss (if desired), reduced cravings, and a healthier relationship with food.
If your insurance covers the cost, there’s no reason to wait — your future self will thank you.
