FAQ’s
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q.1 What is a Registered Dietitian (RD)?
Registered Dietitians (RD's) are health professionals specializing in food and nutrition. In order to earn the nationally-recognized credential of RD, a candidate must complete a Bachelors Degree in Food and Nutrition and/or Masters Degree in Nutrition or American Dietetic internship. RD status also requires successfully passing the National Registration Exam and accumulating a sufficient number of on-going Continuing Education credits annually. A RD is sometimes referred to as a nutritionist, however, a nutritionist who has not achieved RD status may not advertise herself or practice as a Registered Dietitian. Also, in the state of Maryland, Registered Dietitians are licensed (LD) to prevent misuse of the term nutritionist. RD's and LD's are the only health professionals permitted to counsel patients on medically-necessary dietary intervention.
Q.2 What is a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE)?
A Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) earns the designation by successfully completing the Certification Examination for Diabetes Educators. Candidates must meet rigorous credential and professional practice experience requirements to be eligible to take the examination. Achieving the CDE credential demonstrates to patients that the health care professional possesses distinct and specialized knowledge, thereby promoting quality care for patients with diabetes. There are currently only 14,000 diabetes educators who hold the CDE credential nationwide. Rebecca Bitzer, MS, RD & Associates is fortunate to have a qualified CDE on staff.
Q.3 Will my health insurance cover my visit?
Health insurance often covers medical nutrition therapy (appointments with your dietitian) for diagnoses that are deemed "Medically Necessary." These often include: Diabetes, Hypertension (High Blood Pressure), Sleep Apnea, Food Allergies, Unexplained Weight Loss/Gain, Hyperlipidemia (High Cholesterol), Gastrointestinal Problems, Eating Disorders, Kidney Disease, Etc. If you are not sure if your insurance will cover our services, please feel free to call our office at (301) 474-2499 during our business hours to discuss your situation. Or, you may review our online guide to current insurance coverage requirements.
Q.4 What are your hours?
We have appointments available in our Greenbelt office Monday through Saturday. This includes morning, afternoon and evening hours. We also have time slots available in Annapolis, Arnold and Columbia. Our hours vary from day to day. So, for a complete list of our hours by location please review our detailed schedule on the locations page of this site.
Q.5 Do you see children?
Yes, we see people of all ages and we have several dietitians who specialize in pediatrics. Collectively we have years of experience in dealing with nutrition issues related to children including: overweight/underweight kids, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, food allergies and eating disorders.
Q.6 May I bring my spouse?
Definitely, we encourage a "family approach." The more the merrier. There is no additional charge if your spouse or significant other wants to join you in your session(s).
Q.7 Does anyone speak Spanish?
Yes, we have a dietitian on staff who speaks Spanish. Please let the receptionist know that you would like a Spanish-speaking dietitian when you set up your first appointment.
Sí, tenemos un dietético en el personal que es fluido en español. Deje por favor a recepcionista saber que usted quisiera a dietético de habla hispana cuando usted instaló su primera cita.
Q.8 What will happen to me at my visit?
The Registered Dietitian will ask you about your current eating behaviors, food choices, restaurant eating, snacks, portion sizes. She will explain, in detail, how the choices that you have made will have impacted your current health situation. She will then begin to help you prioritize the changes that you need to make in order to improve your health. We believe in an easy, step-wise approach that increases success and long-term change.
Q.9 How long are the visits?
The typical initial consultation lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour and follow-up visits usually last 20-30 minutes. We can tailor your appointments to meet your needs if you require more or less time to achieve your goals.
Q.10 How many times will I have to come?
We have a very individualized approach depending upon your current diet, your goals and the number and severity of the health issues that you face. Ideally we like to work with you weekly, bi-weekly or monthly depending upon your needs. This approach provides an opportunity to work with you during various eating situations throughout all the seasons of the year (holidays, vacations, barbecues, etc.). Some clients need more intensive follow-up than others -- it varies from client to client. For instance, if you're a disciplined, self-starter you will require less supervision. If you need more structure and accountability, we are here to help you as well.
Q.11 How early do I need to come to my first appointment?
You should plan on arriving at least fifteen minutes before your scheduled appointment time. This will give you enough time to fill out paperwork and allow us time to photocopy your insurance card, etc. However, if your time is at a premium, you can print out our registration form at home and fill it out prior to your first visit. If you come with the paperwork filled out, you should still plan on arriving at least five minutes before your appointment. Please visit our Client Forms page to download and print our Patient Registration Form before your arrival.
Q.12 What should I bring to my first appointment?
You will need to bring your insurance card, photo ID, referral from your physician (if required) and any medical lab or blood work results (printouts) if you have them. Also, it is helpful to have a list of medications that you are currently taking. If your insurance requires you to make a co-pay, or if you are a self-pay client you should also have payment for services. We accept cash, check or visa, master and discover cards.
