Dietitians work with people for anything that is related to food, eating, and/or your health. A lot of medical conditions can be managed or improved through making changes to your eating patterns. Dietitians can help you to make changes that make sense for your life. We take into account all of the things that might impact how, why, and what you eat, so that you can take actions to support your health and your overall wellbeing. I usually start with asking lots of questions, and then give you some suggestions on how to address your concerns. Then we’ll work together to make a plan on how to implement your desired changes and support you through any barriers.
Read more here: https://www.dietitians.ca/About/Learn-About-Dietitians
Registered Dietitians are regulated health professionals in all provinces of Canada, which means that the title is protected by law. In order to use the title, an RD must be registered with the appropriate provincial regulatory body (in Alberta, the College of Dietitians of Alberta and in Ontario, the College of Dietitians of Ontario).
On the other hand, the use of the title “Nutritionist” varies by province – in Alberta, this is also a legally protected title only usable by Registered Dietitians. However, in Ontario, anyone can use the title “Nutritionist.” It’s always a good idea to check with the regulatory body in your province to ensure the practitioner you are working with is a Registered Dietitian in good standing.
Read more here:
https://collegeofdietitians.ab.ca/public/how-do-i-know-my-dietitian-is-registered/
https://collegeofdietitians.org/public/dietitian-a-restricted-title/
Yes! I can direct bill to a number of health insurance providers. However, not all plans cover dietitian services. Currently I can direct bill to insurance providers in Alberta (Ontario clients – stay tuned!). Some of the main providers I bill to include Alberta Blue Cross, Sun Life, GreenShield, Manulife, Desjardin, and Simply Benefits, as well as several others. Contact me to find out if this is an option for you. Dietitian services are also covered through Health Spending Accounts. If your provider is not available for direct billing, or if you have multiple plans, you will receive a receipt after each appointment that you can submit for reimbursement.
There are many ways to access dietitian services in Canada in both public or private practice, although some options may not be readily available where you live. If you have private health benefits, you may have coverage to see a dietitian. Contact your HR department or benefit provider for more info. Some specialized dietitian services (such as eating disorder treatment in hospital) are accessed via referral from your doctor.
Alberta
Public options in Alberta include Primary Care Networks (https://albertapcns.ca/pcn/edmonton-zone) and AHS Health Link (https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/811/811.aspx#nutrition).
Ontario
Public options in Ontario can be found using Ontario’s Health811 online tool (search “dietitian”) https://health811.ontario.ca/static/guest/find-a-service. You can also speak to a dietitian by calling 811 or using Health811 online chat https://health811.ontario.ca/static/guest/spotlight/hcns-nutrition-program
Generally, no. While your primary care provider may recommend that you see a dietitian, a referral is not required to see a dietitian practicing in private practice, although I do accept referrals if you have one. To see a dietitian working in specialized clinic, primary care network, or family health team, a referral may be needed or they may only work with individuals who are patients of that clinic. Some insurance providers may require a referral before they will reimburse you for a visit. It’s a great idea to check with your insurance provider before your appointment.