Telehealth offers an opportunity to expand access to nutrition care, connecting patients with registered dietitians (RDs) who can help prevent and manage chronic diseases without requiring an in-person visit.
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) recently awarded $5.4 million to 18 organizations through its Telehealth Nutrition Services Network Grant Program. The program aims to increase access to nutrition services that help prevent and manage chronic diseases by integrating telehealth into primary and specialty care settings, particularly in rural and medically underserved communities.
As opportunities for virtual nutrition care expand, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has published new guidance to help registered dietitians navigate the complexities of providing care through telehealth companies.
Five Best Practices for Registered Dietitians Providing Telehealth Nutrition Care
The Academy’s Best Practices for Registered Dietitians Working with Telehealth Nutrition Companies to Provide Nutrition Services guide outlines practical steps RDs can take to protect their professional interests while delivering safe, effective care.
Here are five key takeaways:
1. Research the company before signing a contract.
Evaluate a company’s mission, reputation, clinical standards, and approach to patient care. Ask about onboarding, ongoing training, clinical supervision, quality assurance, and the support available when patients need referrals or additional care.
2. Understand your contract and compensation.
Review whether you will work as an employee or independent contractor, how compensation is calculated, and who is responsible for malpractice insurance, licensing fees, and technology expenses. Pay close attention to liability provisions, termination terms, and incentives that could interfere with independent clinical judgment.
3. Verify credentialing, coding, and billing practices.
Understand payer credentialing requirements and confirm when you are authorized to begin billing in-network services. Ensure that documentation accurately reflects the care provided, procedure codes match the services delivered, and billing follows applicable payer policies. Even when a company manages claims, RDs remain professionally accountable for services billed under their names and National Provider Identifiers (NPIs).
4. Confirm compliance with applicable requirements.
Before providing care, verify that you and the company comply with applicable Virginia licensure and practice requirements, telehealth regulations, privacy protections, and payer requirements. If providing care to patients located outside Virginia, confirm the requirements in those states as well.
5. Use clinical judgment to determine whether telehealth is appropriate.
Telehealth is not suitable for every patient or situation. Consider the patient’s condition, access to technology, and whether a reliable assessment can be completed remotely. Some situations, including suspected malnutrition, may require an in-person evaluation. Establish clear procedures for referrals, escalation, and timely follow-up when virtual care is insufficient.
Resources for Virginia Registered Dietitians Providing Telehealth Care
As telehealth continues to expand access to nutrition care, RDs must stay informed about the requirements that apply to their practice. Virginia providers should verify current licensure, telehealth, privacy, and reimbursement requirements before providing care, particularly when treating patients located in other states.
The following resources can help RDs navigate applicable requirements:
- Center for Connected Health Policy’s (CCHP) Policy Finder: Explore state telehealth policies, including cross-state licensing requirements and alternative pathways to practice.
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Telehealth Laws Impacting State Dietetics/Nutrition Authorization Requirements: Review RD-specific guidance on state authorization requirements for telehealth.
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Licensure Map and Statutes by State: Find state-specific dietetics licensure information.
Because telehealth policies and regulations can change, RDs should consult these resources regularly and confirm current requirements with the relevant state authorities and payers to support compliant, high-quality nutrition care.