Quick Answer
Medicare Part B covers Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) for beneficiaries with diabetes, chronic kidney disease (not on dialysis), or a kidney transplant within the past 36 months. MNT must be provided by a registered dietitian or nutrition professional. You pay nothing for MNT when your doctor refers you and you see a participating provider. General nutrition counseling for weight loss or wellness is not covered under Original Medicare.
Coverage Comparison by Plan Type
| Plan Type | Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Original Medicare (Part A & B) | Partial | Part B covers MNT for diabetes and kidney disease only; general nutrition counseling not covered |
| Medicare Advantage (Part C) | Varies by Plan | Must cover MNT; many plans offer additional nutrition or wellness benefits |
| Medicare Supplement (Medigap) | Helps with Cost-Sharing | Covers Part B coinsurance for any MNT visit Original Medicare approves |
| Medicare Part D | Not Applicable | MNT is a service, not a prescription; diabetes medications may be covered under Part D |
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Original Medicare (Part a & B)
Medicare Part B covers Medical Nutrition Therapy when you have been diagnosed with diabetes, chronic kidney disease (not on dialysis), or have had a kidney transplant within the past 36 months. Coverage includes an initial assessment and follow-up sessions with a registered dietitian or nutrition professional. Your doctor must refer you for the service.
MNT is covered at $0 cost to you when provided by a participating provider and billed as a preventive service. General nutrition counseling, weight loss programs, or visits to a nutritionist for general wellness are not covered under Original Medicare.
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medicare Advantage plans are required to cover MNT for qualifying conditions. Many plans go further and offer additional nutrition counseling, weight management programs, or dietitian visits as supplemental benefits. Check your plan's Evidence of Coverage to see what nutrition services are included.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Because MNT is covered at $0 under Original Medicare for qualifying conditions, a Medigap plan is generally not needed for this service. If additional nutrition-related services are billed separately and subject to Part B cost-sharing, Medigap can cover the 20% coinsurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare Cover a Registered Dietitian?
Yes, but only for Medical Nutrition Therapy for diabetes or kidney disease. General dietitian visits for wellness or weight loss are not covered under Original Medicare.
Does Medicare Cover Nutrition Counseling for Weight Loss?
Not directly. Original Medicare does not cover general weight loss nutrition counseling. However, Medicare does cover obesity screening and intensive behavioral therapy for obesity, which may include dietary guidance.
How Many Nutrition Therapy Sessions Does Medicare Cover?
Medicare covers 3 hours of MNT in the first year and 2 hours per year in subsequent years. Additional hours may be covered if your doctor determines they are medically necessary.
Do I Need a Referral for Medicare to Cover Nutrition Therapy?
Yes. Your doctor must refer you for Medical Nutrition Therapy. Without a referral, Medicare will not cover the service.
David Haass
CTO & Co-FounderDavid Haass is the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Elite Insurance Partners and MedicareFAQ.com. He is a member and regular contributor to Forbes Finance Council.
Ashlee Zareczny
ReviewerAshlee Zareczny is a licensed Medicare agent in all 50 states dedicated to educating those eligible for Medicare. She trains agents on CMS compliance guidelines.