SERVICES

We partner with Home Health and Hospice agencies as well as directly with patients to provide nutrition consulting in the home. We provide services virtually, telephonically and in-person.

What are the benefits of using a dietitian?

Dietitians in the home care setting work with patients and families to individualize interventions and meal plans to help meet nutrition needs within budget limitations while respecting patients’ food choices and preferences. The majority of the home bound patients we serve are elderly, however, we extend service to any home bound patient needing our assistance.

The dietitian provides individualized education to families and caregivers, and completes a comprehensive nutrition assessment with clearly defined personalized goals, recommendations and interventions.

What are common reasons to consult a dietitian?

  • Tube feeding (determine TF/hydration needs as well as troubleshoot complications)

  • Weaning off tube feeding

  • Diet education (ex. ESRD/DM/Heart disease) for those not at high risk for malnutrition

  • Unexpected weight loss

  • Dysphagia diet/Aspiration risk

  • GI (inconsistent bowel movements, colostomies, digestive concerns)

  • Wound healing nutrition

  • End of life nutrition (comfort feeding and what to expect at the end)

What is included in a “dietitian consult”?

Our comprehensive nutrition assessments include gathering and assessing information on chewing and swallowing, appetite, taste changes, weight changes, GI status, medications, available medical history, as well as food preparation and resources. Once complete, this evaluation is sent to the agency who requested the consult. Often, the dietitian will also call the RN case manager to review recommendations, especially if the dietitian has recommendations that require a doctor’s order.

How often does the dietitian make a visit?

Our services can range from a one-time consult to ongoing visits. The home health or hospice agency can request a specified number of visits, otherwise one visit is assumed. The dietitian may also request a follow up visit, if needed.