Nutrition News

By Meeghan, 30 August, 2011

The following article has been written by Meaghan Butterley, Forever Strong's in house dietitian who is available by appointment to help you with your individual nutritional needs through one-on-one consultations at the Forever Strong Studio.

Private heath ancillary cover

There are two areas of health insurance that you may be covered for: nutrition or dietetics (or both in some cases). ‘Dietetics’ cover is generally available for higher levels of cover, while ‘nutrition’ cover is standard for most levels of cover. Benefits vary depending on your insurer and level of cover, so it may be wise to investigate your coverage.

Medicare cover

Another benefit of a provider number is that if you are suffering from a chronic health condition, your GP can refer you to see an allied health professional (physiotherapist, podiatrist, speech pathologist, psychologist, dietitian etc) for up to 5 consultations per calendar year as part of an ‘Enhanced Primary Care Plan’ or ‘Team Care Arrangement’. In this case, you will be eligible to receive a Medicare rebate of $50.05 for each allied health consultation. A chronic disease is one that has been present for six months or longer, and includes, but is not limited to: heart disease, diabetes, stroke, musculoskeletal conditions and asthma. It is important to note that it is your GP who will determine if you will benefit from these services and their decision whether you should be referred and to which allied health professional.

Consultation payment

In both cases, you will be charged a standard nutrition consultation fee at the time of the consultation and be issued with a receipt to claim Medicare or health insurance benefits.

For more information, go to http://www.health.gov.au/mbsprimarycareitems. If you would like to arrange an appointment for a nutrition consultation for advice and assistance with weight loss, healthy eating or disease management, contact me on 0430 649 962.