What is the role of MNT in Managed Care Organizations (MCOs)?
It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that MNT is an essential component of disease management and healthcare provided by Managed Care Organizations, and that such care must be provided by qualified nutrition professionals. Today, more and more MCOs and commercial payers are implementing or expanding their coverage of MNT. The reasons for this are: • The authorization of CPT codes for MNT • the implementation of MNT benefits in Medicare Part B for diabetes and kidney disease • Studies proving the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of MNT • MNT being included in national standards of care for many chronic disease conditions • MNT being included in the quality standards required by accreditation entities such as the: • National Committee for Quality Assurance • Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Health Care Organizations There is a paramount need in contemporary clinical practice and in today’s cost-conscience healthcare environment that patient treatment: • Be cost
