309: The Dietitian Coach Approach, Insurance Changes & New Opportunities – Jenny Westerkamp

Full shownotes, transcript, and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/309                         

Access to dietitian services is evolving, and so is the way we think about nutrition care. In this episode, we're diving into how and why more people can (and should) work with a registered dietitian, especially when the focus goes beyond food advice to meaningful behavior change. We'll unpack what's shifting in the RD landscape, from referrals to insurance coverage, and what that means for both the public and nutrition professionals. If you've ever wondered how to actually access dietitian services, make the most of your benefits, or why this field is often misunderstood and underutilized, this conversation will connect the dots and offer practical, real-world insights.

Tune in to this episode to learn about:

• how and why the field of dietetics is undervalued and underutilized
• how the dietitian services landscape has changed over the past few years
• that many insurance companies are covering preventive nutrition services
• how to increase referrals to dietitian services
• what makes the dietitian "coach" approach different from the "expert" approach
• how to get beyond the meal plan requests and really make a difference
• how dietitians can get support to start their own practice
• pros/cons to telehealth
• challenges and opportunities facing the field of dietetics 
• how personal stories can inspire more people to become dietitians
• resources for health professionals and the public