FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
DO YOU PROVIDE MEAL PLANS?
In most cases, I do not provide meal plans for clients because a meal plan is not a sustainable solution to a healthier life; meal plans are rigid, and it is doubtful that someone can follow one indefinitely. Here are some questions to ask if someone offers you a meal plan. What are you going to do at the end of the meal plan? Will you resume your old habits? Will you lose confidence in how to approach your meals once the meal plan is over?
Instead of a meal plan, I help clients build skills in making healthy food decisions that they can apply in everyday situations to make lasting changes.
WHAT TAKES PLACE DURING A NUTRITION CONSULTATION?
I will go over the client's medical and lifestyle history to get a clear picture of their nutritional status. Then, depending on the client's goal, i.e., to improve blood sugar, blood pressure, general wellness, etc., my client and I will set up realistic and achievable action plans to help them move closer to better health.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A DIETITIAN AND A NUTRITIONIST?
In Ontario, a dietitian is a healthcare professional regulated by the province's regulatory body. To become a dietitian, they must graduate with a reputable and recognized degree in nutrition, complete the required field practicum in various healthcare and community settings, and successfully pass the registration exam. The regulatory body for dietitians exists to ensure public safety.
A nutritionist is an unregulated term in Ontario. It does not mean that a nutritionist is unqualified to help their clients achieve better health. However, nutritionists are not accountable to provincial regulatory bodies to ensure their services are safe to the public.
DOES HEALTH INSURANCE POLICY COVER NUTRITION CONSULTS?
Yes, health insurance plans and healthcare benefits often offer coverage for registered dietitians. Please look at your health benefits package to learn about the coverage, i.e., does it cover a percentage of the fee or provide you a maximum allowable limit. Dietetic service is listed under paramedical services.
DO YOU OFFER DIRECT BILLING TO INSURANCE PROVIDERS?
Submitting insurance claims can be overwhelming and is another chore between you and getting the help you need. I offer direct billing to specific insurance providers so that you don't need to pay upfront or at least only have to pay a portion of the service not covered by your health benefits.