Peters Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Expand Access to Medical Nutrition Therapy

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) has introduced the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act, bipartisan legislation that would expand Medicare beneficiaries' access to Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT), a cost-effective method to treat obesity, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and other chronic conditions. The bill would also allow more types of providers to refer patients to MNT, including nurse practitioners, physician assistants, clinical nurse specialists, and psychologists.

"Medical Nutrition Therapy is a cost-effective, preventive care method that helps Michiganders with chronic conditions get treatment. When people have access to this type of health care it helps them live longer, healthier lives, without breaking the bank," said Senator Peters. "I'm proud to help reintroduce this bipartisan bill to expand access to these critical medical services, lower costs, and improve health outcomes for Michiganders and millions of Americans."

Peters introduced this bill with U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-ME). The bill is supported by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, UsAgainstAlzheimer's, and the Endocrine Society.

The Medical Nutrition Therapy Act would expand Medicare Part B coverage of outpatient medical nutrition therapy services to several currently uncovered diseases and conditions including prediabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, malnutrition, eating disorders, cancer, HIV/AIDS, gastrointestinal diseases including celiac disease, and cardiovascular disease. Currently, Medicare Part B only covers outpatient MNT for diabetes, renal disease, and post-kidney transplant.

MNT counseling is provided by Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) as part of a collaborative health care team. It is evidenced-based and proven to improve weight, blood pressure, blood lipids, and blood sugar control. Nutritional counseling by RDNs is recommended by the National Lipid Association to promote long-term adherence to an individualized, heart-healthy diet.

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