Coding for nutrition services: challenges, opportunities, and guidelines

Use of appropriate codes when billing insurance programs can be essential in obtaining reimbursement for nutrition services. The absence of codes that precisely identify the nutrition assessment and treatment functions performed by nutrition professionals on an outpatient basis is one barrier to clear and consistent processing of claims for nutrition services. Not only is there significant variation from insurer to insurer with respect to coding practices for nutrition services, but codes change over time. This article presents current codes that may be applicable to nutrition services and identifies codes designated for nutrition services by several insurers in certain areas. The article suggests the challenges and opportunities for nutrition professionals who seek to describe accurately the services they render to patients. Finally, the article discusses guidelines for professionals to consider when selecting codes to bill for nutrition services.