03/19/97 New Study Proves Significant Medicare Savings

New Study Proves Significant Medicare Savings

Washington, DC, March 19, 1997

Registered Dietitians Improve Health Care And Reduce Costs

A new study released today from The Lewin Group proves what health care providers have known for years--medical nutrition therapy could save Medicare dollars. If coverage would begin in 1998, savings to Medicare would be $11 million in 2001, increasing to $65 million in 2004.

The Lewin Group, a highly respected health policy research firm, projects the net cost of extending coverage of medical nutrition therapy to all Medicare beneficiaries at less than $370 million over seven years, when savings are considered. After the third year of coverage, the study estimates that savings would be greater than costs.

"Medical professionals have known for years that medical nutrition therapy is a key factor in improving a patient's health and speeding recovery--now we have numbers to prove it saves money too," says Ronni Chernoff, Ph.D., R.D. (registered dietitian), president of The American Dietetic Association (ADA).

Medical nutrition therapy includes the assessment of a patient's nutritional status followed by appropriate therapy, which can range from diet modifications to administration of specialized treatment methods such as intravenous or tube feedings.

The Lewin study projects that the initial investment required to add the new benefit to Medicare Part B, which covers outpatient care, will yield significant savings to Medicare Part A, which covers inpatient costs. The total savings to the Medicare program comes from reduced hospital admissions and reduced complications requiring a doctor's visit.

As core members of the health care team, registered dietitians are highly trained and educated in the science of nutrition and its application to disease prevention and treatment. They work with doctors, nurses, patients and patients' families to determine the most appropriate nutrition therapy for each patient.

"Surprising to many, eighty percent of registered dietitians work in health care settings. They are fundamental members of the medical team in providing effective health care delivery," Chernoff says.

Unfortunately, there is no consistent pattern of coverage for nutrition services, either in Medicare or in the private sector. Coverage of medical nutrition therapy would provide access to comprehensive nutrition services for people who may not otherwise be eligible for, or have the finances to seek, such services. It would improve the quality of life for more people at a reduced cost.

The 70,000-member American Dietetic Association is the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. With headquarters in Chicago, it serves the public by promoting optimal nutrition, health, and well-being.