One of the biggest hurdles to accessing quality healthcare is the complexity of the insurance system. At Lutz &Alexander Nutrition Therapy, we understand that financial concerns can be a significant “barrier to entry” for new clients. We believe that everyone deserves access to eating disorder care, and part of that commitment is our practice being in network with North Carolina’s largest insurance companies. Furthermore, we hope to make the payment logistics as transparent as possible. Our goal is to provide an accessible choice for individuals and families in Raleigh, Charlotte, and beyond by helping you navigate the financial side of recovery.
Understanding Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)
When you see a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), the services provided are often billed as Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT). This is an evidence-based application of the nutrition care process. In the insurance industry, these services are identified by specific CPT codes.
The most common codes you will encounter are:
- CPT Code 97802: This is used for the initial assessment and intervention, usually your first face-to-face appointment, and is billed in 15-minute increments.
- CPT Code 97803: This code is used for follow-up sessions and reassessments and is billed in 15-minute increments.
- CPT Code 97804: Used for group nutrition therapy sessions and billed in 30-minute increments.
By understanding these codes, you can better communicate with your insurance provider to determine what your specific plan covers.
Why We Are “Not Your Typical Dietitians” Regarding Insurance
Many large hospital systems, like Duke or UNC, are in-network with a wide range of providers, but they often operate within the “medical industrial complex” that prioritizes weight management over weight-inclusive care. At Lutz &Alexander, we practice exclusively with a non-diet approach. We believe your body is your most powerful ally in achieving your best health, and we work to support you in using your nutrition insurance benefits to access non-diet support.
We are in-network with several major providers in North Carolina, and for those we are not contracted with, we offer guidance on utilizing out-of-network benefits. It is our hope that the cost of care does not stop you from working with a dietitian who understands eating disorders, neurodivergence, diabetes, or PCOS from a non-diet lens.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Your Benefits
Before your first appointment, we recommend calling your insurance company to verify your coverage. Using our Insurance Coverage Call Guide on our website can help you get the most accurate information:
- Ask about MNT coverage: “Does my plan cover CPT codes 97802 and 97803?”
- Inquire about preventative benefits: “Does my plan cover nutrition visits as part of my preventative care benefits?
- Check for diagnosis requirements: “Do I need a specific medical diagnosis, such as an eating disorder or diabetes, for these services to be covered?”
- Inquire about session limits: “Is there a limit to how many nutrition counseling sessions I can have per calendar year?” Of note, if you have an eating disorder diagnosis, visit limits should not apply according to Mental Health Parity laws.
- Confirm your responsibility: “What is my co-pay or co-insurance for an office visit with a specialist?”
- Telehealth vs. In-Person: “Does my plan cover virtual nutrition therapy as well as in-person visits at Lutz & Alexander offices in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Cary, or Charlotte?”
Reducing the Barrier to Entry
We know that navigating these calls can feel frustrating and like swimming against a swift current. Our Insurance Coverage Call Guide is on our website to support you. We are also happy to help you interpret any information you have from your insurance provider. Furthermore, as members of the HEALers Circle through Project HEAL, we support efforts to provide low- or no-cost treatment to individuals who cannot afford care.
Investing in Your Full Recovery
We believe in full recovery, and we know that consistent support from a Registered Dietitian is often a vital piece of that puzzle. Whether you are dealing with disordered eating, pediatric nutrition concerns, or prenatal health, our team is dedicated to helping you reclaim joy and freedom in eating.
Don’t let the “clutter” of insurance paperwork keep you from the care you deserve. Our offices in Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Chapel Hill, Cary, and Portland are ready to help you focus on what really matters in your nutrition.
Are you currently covered by a North Carolina-based insurance plan, or are you looking for information on self-pay options and sliding scales? Reach out so we can help.