What’s the difference between a registered dietitian (RD) and a nutritionist?
Registered Dietitian (RD), also known as Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) is nutrition professional with a minimum of a Master’s degree, who has completed a dietetic internship and has passed the national Registered Dietitian Nutritionist board exam. They must complete ongoing continuing education to maintain their credentials. RDs or RDNs are regulated healthcare professionals licensed to assess, diagnose, and treat nutritional problems.
I’ve never worked with a RD before. How do I know if it’s right for me?
RD’s are trained and qualified nutrition professionals in the health care system. Nutrition is a science and we are constantly re-evaluating our practice to provide the most up-to-date, science-backed care. We’re really interested in helping individuals have a balanced and healthy diet to live their lives to their fullest potential.
Most people think that dietitians are the food police, and we’re really not. I love veggies, fruits, probiotics, whole grains, and fish, but I also really enjoy froyo, pizza and birthday cake. Being healthy is what I preach and it’s part of my lifestyle, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room to fit in some dessert sometimes!
If you’re still not sure if working with a dietitian is right for you, I invite you to contact me so we can explore whether nutrition coaching can meet your needs.
How many follow up sessions will I need?
Follow-up sessions are very helpful because they allow for ongoing support, education and advice to help you stay on track and accountable. We can address questions, or make further assessments and adjust goals as needed.
The number of follow up sessions depends on your needs and goals. It’s impossible to learn everything you need to know in one session, and it takes time to change your eating habits and your health. People who have the best results typically come for several follow up visits after the initial assessment.
Do you take insurance?
Yes, I am in-network with Anthem Blue Cross CA, United Healthcare and Blue Shield of CA.
If you intend to use your health insurance, please call your insurance BEFORE your visit to ask about your benefits.
Questions to ask your insurance company:
Is nutrition counseling covered under this plan (CPT codes 97802, 97803, and 97804)?
Is a referral or prior authorization needed for visits to be covered?
Is nutrition counseling covered when provided via telehealth?
How many visits are covered?
Is there a deductible that must be met before insurance pays anything towards these visits?
Is there a copay or coinsurance?
Write down the date, time, and reference number for the call for your records. This helps ensure that you get the most of your insurance benefits and avoid any surprise bills.
Coverage varies between plans. If insurance declines to cover your visit(s) for any reason, you are responsible for the full amount billed.
What do I need to do to get ready for my first appointment?
Great question! Once we have scheduled your first appointment, you will receive intake and policy forms sent to your email.
If you intend to use your health insurance, please call your insurance BEFORE your visit to ask about your benefits.
What kind of clients do you work with?
I work with a variety of clients within mostly the adult age group. Areas of focus include weight management, medical condition management, wellness/stress management and general nutrition education. I can offer guidance on your eating while on a GLP-1. Prior to your visit I will ask that you provide some information on your reason for visiting, amongst other questions that will help me better prepare for our session together.
I’m ready to get started. What should I do first?
The first step is to fill out this inquiry form.
Alternatively, I am a Berry Street provider. This platform can help verify insurance coverage. By clicking the link below, it will walk you through steps to reach my bookable calendar.
https://visit.berrystreet.co/providers/Julie-Tang
Julie Tang Nutrition 