Nutrition and physical fitness are the foundations of a healthy lifestyle. Food is integral to our lives. We eat not only to nourish our bodies for growth, work and play, but also for pleasure. We realize the importance of healthy eating habits, but obtaining the most accurate information isn’t easy.

How our Dietitian Nutritionists can help:

They use their expertise to help individuals make unique, positive lifestyle changes by offering personalized nutrition counseling in a wide variety of areas. These include:

  • Healthy food choices for all age groups
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Hypertension
  • Eating Disorders
  • Diabetes
  • Gastrointestinal disease (e.g. gluten intolerance, irritable bowel, diverticulosis)
  • Cancer
  • Food intolerance/allergies
  • Weight management
  • Sports Nutrition
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • Health Coaching

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect?
An initial visit will last approximately 1-1.5 hours. During that time, the dietitian will listen and gather your background information and health goals related to nutrition. She will work with you in developing an individualized plan for achieving your goals. More than one session may be required to help you reach positive outcomes. 
Does insurance cover Nutrition Therapy?
Many insurance plans will cover the visits. Some insurances require a referral from a healthcare provider. Check with your insurance to verify coverage. Our hospital will bill your insurance. 
What if I do not have insurance?
Without insurance, you may qualify for Pullman Regional Hospital's assistance program. Self-pay options are also available. 
What is the difference between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist?

Registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) and nutrition and dietetics technicians, registered (NDTRs) are credentialed practitioners. A credential is a professional qualification — like MD for doctors or physicians — that lets the public know that the practitioner is a trained expert. In nutrition and dietetics, the credentials for trained experts is RDN and NDTR. Usually when someone says “dietitian,” they mean an RDN.

“Registered dietitian nutritionist” and “nutrition and dietetics technicians, registered” are legally protected titles. Only practitioners who have completed specific educational requirements, passed a national exam and continue learning through ongoing education can use these titles and credentials.

However, there is no specific, standardized meaning for “nutritionist.” Anyone can call themselves a nutritionist, and unfortunately, unqualified health care recommendations can cause people harm. So whether someone calls themselves “dietitian” or “nutritionist,” check for credentials to ensure they are qualified nutrition experts.

You may see the credentials RD or RDN (Registered Dietitian or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist).  These credentials have the same meaning and are interchangeable.

Marian's Story

When Marian Sciachitano was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and hypertension, she knew it was time to seek out nutrition assistance. 

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