Accepting New Clients
Does Always Heath Cover Medical Nutrition Therapy?
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Alyssa A. Pittman, RDN
I understand that the intersection of nutrition services and health insurance can sometimes feel like a maze. To help demystify this, I want to share how our collaboration works when it comes to Allways Health.
Credentialing & Collaboration
My association with Allways Health begins with a comprehensive credentialing process. This is Allways Health's commitment to ensuring their members receive guidance from qualified and reputable professionals. After the credentialing phase, we establish a contractual relationship that lays out the terms of service provisions and payment structures.
Coverage Clarity
Before embarking on our nutrition journey, it's vital to determine the coverage your specific Allways Health plan offers. Coverage can differ significantly between plans; some might cover nutrition sessions related to certain health conditions, while others may focus more on preventive care or general nutritional advice. I'm here to help you navigate these nuances or direct you to liaise with Allways Health for in-depth specifics.
Documenting Medical Necessity
To facilitate a smooth billing process, it's crucial to maintain comprehensive records of our sessions. Occasionally, a referral or recommendation from your primary healthcare provider, highlighting the necessity for nutritional guidance, may be required.
Billing & Payment
After our sessions, I send a detailed invoice to Allways Health. This invoice includes specific codes that describe the nature, duration, and any related diagnoses of the service provided. Allways Health will then review this claim and, based on our pre-established agreement, process the reimbursement.
Co-pays, Deductibles, & Other Costs
Depending on your Allways Health plan's specifics, you might be subject to co-pays or deductibles. I strive for complete transparency in this area to ensure you're well-informed and never caught off-guard.
Continual Communication
Throughout our time together, I pledge to keep you updated on any insurance-related developments or details pertinent to our sessions.
The intricacies of health insurance can be daunting. But with my guidance, you can confidently tap into the benefits of your Allways Health plan, all while working towards your nutritional goals.
It’s always a good idea to contact your insurance provider ahead of your appointment to verify coverage details, co-pay amounts, and any other related queries. If you have questions or need further information regarding payments, don’t hesitate to contact me.
Hello! I’m Alyssa Pittman, a 35-year-old Registered Dietitian based in Shrewsbury, MA. I still remember the day I passed the RD exam – it remains one of the best days of my life! All my hard work, dedication, and countless hours poured into studying and understanding the intricate world of nutrition had finally paid off. More than the personal achievement, I was ecstatic about channeling my passion for food and nutrition to aid others. Whether it’s assisting those grappling with weight issues, helping manage diseases through diet, or guiding those with disordered eating patterns, my commitment to making a positive difference has been my driving force.
My intrigue with nutrition took root during my junior year in high school. A vivid memory that stands out is when I eagerly educated my classmates about which granola bar was the healthiest option. 😊 Fast forward a bit, and as I delved deeper into my first nutrition class at Framingham State University, I was taken aback. I had stepped into a universe that was much broader and profound than just granola bars and apples. It dawned on me that nutrition was a profound science, influencing not just our physical wellbeing but also our mental health.
Beyond the professional realm, I treasure the time I spend with my beloved husband and our two spirited young boys in our Shrewsbury home. Our evenings often oscillate between cozy family movie nights and playful sports sessions in the backyard. It’s these moments of laughter and bonding that add true richness to my life.
Now, let me take you through my professional journey, where my passion for nutrition came to life in various impactful roles:
Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center - Director of Nutrition
At Harvard Street, I faced the exhilarating challenge of creating a nutrition department from scratch. Collaborating with dedicated doctors and nurses, I provided specialized nutrition counseling for patients of all ages and backgrounds. In addition, I championed community nutrition, overseeing a food pantry to ensure both availability and education about nutritious food choices.
Blackstone Health Inc. - Nutrition Director
In this role, I was responsible for ensuring that seniors across 13 centers in Rhode Island had access to nutritious meals that met state and USDA guidelines. Beyond the menus, I organized weight loss groups, offered individual counseling, and took to the stage to educate seniors on topics close to their heart – quite literally – such as heart health, diabetes, and more.
College of the Holy Cross - Assistant Director of Nutrition
Here, I worked with the vibrant college community, offering nutrition counseling on various topics like sports nutrition, food allergies, and eating disorders. One of my proud achievements was leading the Food Allergy and Special Diet Program, ensuring that students with dietary needs felt safe and catered for. I also took on the academic hat, presenting to classes about the foundational and specialized aspects of nutrition.
Throughout these roles, one thing has remained constant: my passion for helping individuals foster a healthier relationship with food. By understanding, respecting, and working with our unique dietary needs and preferences, I believe we can all lead healthier, happier lives.