As a graduate nutrition student pursuing a career as a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN), I support the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act (H.R. 6199 and S. 3934), which would expand Medicare coverage for medical nutrition therapy (MNT). Currently, Medicare outpatient MNT coverage is primarily limited to individuals with diabetes and certain kidney conditions. This legislation would expand coverage to include conditions such as prediabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, malnutrition, eating disorders, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

Increased access to RDNs could help individuals manage their conditions and potentially prevent future complications. RDNs work with patients to develop individualized nutrition strategies that fit their lifestyles. With access to this guidance, individuals with prediabetes may be able to prevent progression to Type 2 diabetes, while those with hypertension may reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease.

Recently, I witnessed my grandparents lose significant weight over a short period. With earlier access to nutrition care, they might have been able to better maintain their health and independence. An RDN could have helped them find ways to adequately nourish their bodies despite a decreased appetite.

RDNs play an important role on health care teams. Although food is a basic human necessity, individuals may not know how to use nutrition to manage their chronic conditions without professional guidance. Nutrition care should be accessible before complications become severe, rather than only after someone’s health has significantly declined. I encourage Massachusetts lawmakers to support this legislation and expand access to nutrition care."

Siena Russo

Brighton

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