Get Support from the Experts with an Online Dietitian Consultation
In our new virtual world, having an online dietitian consultation is a great way to get support from an expert, without having to leave the house. Working with a Telehealth dietitian has many benefits, and also give us the opportunity as health care professionals to provide the best care virtually. Keep reading to learn more about why you should schedule an online nutrition counseling appointment, what to do to make the most of your session and how to get started!
Why should I schedule an online dietitian consultation?
Telehealth has reimagined the way we look at healthcare appointments today! And while there are times when going in to see a provider is helpful, here are some reasons why you should consider making an online dietitian consultation.
1. Convenience
If you were seeing a provider in person, there can be some planning involved. Aligning your nutrition appointments with your work or school schedule so that you had time to drive into the office could prove to be challenging at times. With telehealth appointments, you can schedule a session whenever it works in your schedule, no travel time included! Which means that instead of fighting traffic at the end of the day, you can see an RD during your lunch or other break at work.
2. Saves Time and Money
As mentioned above, because of the convenience of working virtually with a dietitian, you can save valuable time and money! No need to take time off work, sit in traffic, pay for gas or public transportation!
3. Reduces Exposure to Germs
We are all trying to find ways to reduce the spread of COVID-19 to help manage this pandemic. Online nutrition counseling appointments keep you safe by limiting your exposure to other people, and hopefully reducing the chance of the virus spreading.
4. More Support
Since you aren’t coming into one of our offices, your dietitian can help you in ways like never before during your appointment! Need help organizing your pantry? Not sure how to prepare a recipe that your dietitian suggested? All of this can be done during your telehealth appointment!
5. Your Insurance Covers It
Many insurance companies changed their policies regarding telehealth at the start of the pandemic to allow people to continue to have access to care while staying at home. Your telehealth appointments are now covered by your insurance company at the same cost to you as a regular appointment. Specific coverage for services like online nutrition counseling does vary, so check with your insurance company for your benefits.
What our clients say about their online dietitian consultation
How to prepare for my online dietitian consultation?
1. Check your internet speed
If you are using a computer, the browsers Google Chrome or Firefox work best. Safari works and easily connects via your smartphone. It is also very helpful to have fast enough internet speed to handle the software. You can check your internet speed here. A few things to try that can increase your speed is to:
- connect via ethernet (vs wifi)
- close other programs/windows
- avoid downloading any large files during the session
2. Prepare your space
We ask that you set yourself up for success. This means limiting your distractions. Find a quiet place to take the call. This could be in your office at work (if able), in your car (but not while you are driving), or in a quiet room of your house. Make sure to close the door, turn off the TV/music, and separate yourself from noise/distracting pets.
3. At the time of your appointment
At the time of your visit, click on your link or your provider’s name above and you will be directed to a “virtual waiting room.” When the dietitian is ready to see you, they will initiate a secure, HIPPA compliant video call in a private room with the door closed. Your privacy and confidentiality will be maintained as if you were in the office.
How to Schedule an Online Dietitian Consultation
Call our Office
Call our office at 301-474-2499 to schedule your online dietitian consultation. Our admin team will ask questions about your specific nutrition goals and match you with one of our dietitians.
Complete the Registration Forms
You will receive an email from our admin team with our registration forms. You can complete them online through a secure platform or download them, and mail them to our office.
Appointment Link
You will get a reminder email or text with a link to your appointment. You’ll click on this link at the time of your appointment to meet virtually with your dietitian. You can also find the link to log in below.
Online Nutrition Counseling FAQs
How do I connect with my dietitian for online nutrition counseling?
Here at Rebecca Bitzer & Associates, we use Doxy.me, which is a website that provides a HIPAA compliant platform for video sessions with our clients! You can find your dietitian’s link here or by emailing admin@rbitzer.com
How do I use Doxy.me?
Doxy.me is a very simple Telehealth platform to use. No need to download any software! Just click on your RD’s unique link at the time of your appointment and enter your name. You’ll then be in the virtual waiting room where your dietitian will initiate the call. You can also search for your dietitian link below so that you never lose it!
What device do I need in order to use Doxy.me?
You can use a computer or smartphone to connect on Doxy.me. Here you can find the specific compatibility requirements.
What if I don’t have the unique link?
Give us a call at 301-474-2499 or email us at admin@rbitzer.com so that our admin team can resend you that link! The good news is that the link stays the same for every appointment with your dietitian. You can also find the link here.
How do I make an online dietitian consultation?
You can make an appointment by calling our office at 301-474-2499 or emailing us at admin@rbitzer.com. Our team will ask you questions about your nutrition goals so they can match you with right dietitian.
Are Telehealth dietitian visits covered by my insurance?
Because these are medical nutrition therapy visits that are with our team of Registered Dietitians (participating providers), your insurance will be billed for the service provided. If you have a copay, we will either charge your credit card on file for your visit or we will provide a bill.
Schedule an Online Dietitian Consultation
Updated February 4th, 2022
Klara Knezevic is a registered dietitian nutritionist based in Maryland. She has over a decade of experience in the nutrition field and currently serves as the CEO and co-owner of Rebecca Bitzer and Associates, one of the largest nutrition private practices in the country. Klara is passionate about sharing practical nutrition tips to help you feel confident in the choices that you make. Coauthor ofCooking with Food Sensitivities Survival GuideandNourished: 10 Ingredients to Happy, Healthy Eating.
Can our RD do telemedicine from her own home? Or does she have to be present in the office?