For people with diabetes or renal diseases, proper diet and nutrition can help prevent and reduce complications from their conditions. With a doctor’s referral, Medicare will help cover the costs of 1) an initial assessment of nutrition and lifestyle assessment 2) nutrition counseling, and 3) follow up visits to monitor how well you are managing your diet, for Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes or renal diseases. 

Medicare will cover 3 hours of one-on-one counseling services the first year, and 2 hours each year after that.  This benefit is available through Medicare Part B, and Medicare beneficiaries must pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting the yearly Part B deductible.  Talk to your doctor if you think you may qualify for this benefit. 

For more information on Medicare Part B, please contact the Area Agency on Aging Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) at 800-803-7174.