Does Insurance Cover Nutrition Counseling?

If you’re considering nutrition counseling but you’re stuck on the insurance piece, you’re not alone. Insurance can feel confusing (and by confusing I mean absolutely exhausting), especially when you’re trying to do the “right” thing and just want a clear answer.

Here’s the simple version of how insurance coverage for nutrition counseling usually works, and how to check your benefits quickly.

Does insurance cover nutrition counseling?

Often, yes.

Many insurance plans do cover nutrition counseling, but coverage depends on your specific plan and what they consider a covered benefit (and under which diagnoses). Two people can have the same insurance company and totally different coverage based on their employer plan or plan type.

So the best answer is: it might be covered, but you’ll want to verify your exact benefits before your first appointment.

How to verify your coverage (what to ask)

The fastest way to get accurate info is to call the member services number on the back of your insurance card and ask a few specific questions.

Here’s exactly what to say/ask:

Step 1: Confirm we’re in-network

• Ask: “Is Khan RD in-network with my plan?”

• Provide our NPI: 1477399657

Step 2: Ask if your plan covers nutrition counseling codes

• Ask: “Does my plan cover CPT codes 97802 and 97803?”

  • 97802 is commonly used for initial nutrition counseling visits

  • 97803 is commonly used for follow-up visits

Step 3: Ask about any requirements

• Ask if you need:

  • A referral from your PCP

  • Prior authorization

  • Any limits on number of visits per year

  • A specific diagnosis for coverage

Important note: Khan RD will also make an effort to verify your plan’s coverage details (including diagnosis-related coverage) ahead of time. But insurance reps can give different answers, so we’ll still encourage you to call for the most accurate, plan-specific confirmation.

In-network vs out-of-network

• In-network: Your plan typically covers more of the cost, and your out-of-pocket amount is usually lower (based on your benefits like deductible/copay/coinsurance).

• Out-of-network: Coverage may be lower or not included at all. Some plans reimburse part of the cost, but it often involves submitting claims and documentation. Khan RD can provide superbills on request for you to submit for potential reimbursement.

Have more questions? For more details, visit our Insurance page, or contact us here and we’ll help you figure out the next best step.

The content of this blog does not serve as medical advice.