Medical Nutrition Therapy
Expert Medical Nutrition Therapy for Every Stage of Care
Inpatient Medical Nutrition Therapy
Good nutrition is a key component of recovering from surgery or illness.
Every hospital in the St. Luke’s Network has access to a Registered Dietitian (RD) with the specialized knowledge to meet your nutrition needs.
The Registered Dietitian is an active member of the interdisciplinary healthcare team. Our inpatient dietitians care for patients of all ages—from pre-term, infants and children to older adults. They complete nutrition assessments to identify patients at risk and recommend interventions to optimize recovery and repletion.
The role of the dietitian is to recommend the appropriate diet, nutrition supplements, or IV (parenteral) or tube-feeding regimen to provide optimal nutrition during a patient’s hospitalization.
Nutrition assessments for inpatients are performed when:
- A nursing admission assessment indicates potential nutrition-risk criteria
- A physician consult is ordered
- Nursing or another healthcare professional requests a nutrition assessment
- A standing medical or surgical order set includes a nutrition evaluation.
The Registered Dietitian also initiates nutrition education when a new diagnosis indicates that Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) may help patients make the best nutrition choices for optimal outcomes and recovery. When appropriate, the RD recommends outpatient MNT to provide more in-depth education and continuity of care.
If you or a family member have not been seen by a dietitian during your stay and have concerns about nutrition for recovery, you can request a consult. Please speak with your nurse or physician, and they will arrange for a dietitian to visit.
Outpatient Medical Nutrition Therapy
St. Luke’s Outpatient Nutrition Services offers expert education from our highly trained Registered Dietitians. We provide the latest advances in nutrition treatment, patient education, and support services to help you improve your health and give you the tools to live and eat well for life.
Our outpatient program provides new or ongoing nutrition care after you leave the hospital or as recommended by your doctor to support better health and well-being. Appointments are available for people of all ages and with a wide range of health concerns.
Scheduling an Appointment
A referral from your doctor is required. Once the referral is placed, Central Scheduling will call you to set up a visit, or you can call 1-866-STLUKES (785-8537), option 2 to schedule directly.
What to Expect
- First visit: Approximately 60 minutes. Please bring a written or electronic 3-day food and beverage log, including portion sizes, from three typical days.
- Follow-ups: Approximately 30 minutes. You and your dietitian can determine the frequency that best supports your needs.
Insurance and Payment
Medical Nutrition Therapy is covered by insurance in many situations, but coverage varies by plan. Please confirm benefits with your insurance carrier. If not covered, discounted out-of-pocket rates are available.
Outpatient nutrition services are available at all St. Luke’s campuses across the network. See our brochure to find a location near you.
