FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs
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A dietitian will work closely with you, understanding your unique needs and preferences, to help you achieve your nutrition and health goals.
A dietician conducts a comprehensive assessment of your current medical condition or health concerns, considering presenting symptoms, medical history, medications and supplements taken, lifestyle, dietary habits, and your relationship with food and food preferences.
A dietitian reviews available blood test results and medical reports to comprehensively understand your health history.
A dietitian doesn't just dictate a meal plan but collaborates with you, ensuring that the eating pattern aligns with your health goals and addresses your dietary concerns.
Click here for nutrition and dietitian services in St Kilda, Melbourne, and online in Australia.
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I celebrate, value, and include ALL people regardless of their body size, weight, shape, background, gender, sexuality, culture, language, neurotype, and abilities.
Adults
Adolescents (please phone to discuss)
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Dietitians are not just nutritionists; they are qualified Medical Nutrition Therapists. To become a dietitian, one must undergo a rigorous process, including obtaining an approved dietetics qualification, completing clinical placements, and achieving accreditation. This ensures that they have the highest level of nutrition education among health professionals.
In contrast, "nutritionist" is not regulated or protected, meaning anyone can use it regardless of qualifications.
Dietitians possess the highest level of nutrition education among health professionals. They are the only ones recognised by Medicare to provide Medical Nutrition Therapy. They often work collaboratively with other health professionals as part of a multidisciplinary team to achieve the best possible health outcomes for their clients and patients. To be a dietitian, you must have an approved dietetics qualification, complete clinical placement, and undergo accreditation.
It's important to note that the term 'nutritionist' is not regulated or protected, meaning anyone can use it, regardless of their qualifications. This lack of regulation underscores the importance of being cautious about who you seek nutritional advice from.
Dietitians don't work in isolation. They collaborate with other health professionals as part of a multidisciplinary team to achieve the best possible health outcomes for clients and patients. This team-based approach ensures that all aspects of a patient's health are considered, leading to more effective care.
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Research shows that telehealth consultations are as effective as in-person sessions. The quality of care remains the same regardless of which consultation you choose.
Ultimately, your choice should depend on what best suits your lifestyle, location, schedule, and personal preferences.
It's worth noting that telehealth services remove geographical barriers and provide equal access to high-quality healthcare. Allowing people living in rural or remote areas to receive the same level of care as those in cities.
If you'd like more information, explore in-person consultations in St Kilda, Melbourne, or discover online consultation options across Australia.
APPOINTMENTS
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The number of appointments required depends on your specific reasons for seeking dietetic guidance, your health considerations, and your goals.
For individuals seeking clarification on their current dietary pattern, a minimum of two sessions are recommended.
For individuals seeking to improve their gut health, it may be necessary to attend multiple sessions in order to identify triggers and alleviate symptoms effectively.
For those aiming to establish a healthier relationship with food, an extended period of collaboration often yields the most beneficial results.
Ultimately, my aim is to equip you with the knowledge, confidence, and skills required to manage your health autonomously.
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We ask that if you need to reschedule or cancel your appointment that you give us as much notice as possible.
We have a 48-hour cancellation policy where 100% of the service fee is charged for cancellations within this time frame.
TELEHEALTH
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Telehealth is the delivery of healthcare services remotely using digital communication, such as video calls. It allows clients access to healthcare services without having to visit a clinic.
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We provide telehealth consultations via the online video platform Zoom.
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When you schedule a telehealth appointment, you will be sent a link to securely access your appointment.
BILLING
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You will find our fees here.
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Credit Card Payment: A credit card is required to secure your appointment. This credit card will be charged at the conclusion of your consultation unless other arrangements have been made. A 50% deposit is required to secure in-person appointments at the time of booking.
Medicare Referral: If you have a Medicare referral, your consultation will be charged to your credit card, then your rebate will be promptly processed and deposited into the bank details you’ve provided.
Alternative Payment Method: If you prefer to use a payment method other than a credit card, kindly request an invoice before your consultation. Invoices are required to be settled 48 hours prior to your appointment.
Self-Managed NDIS Participants: An invoice will be sent to your email following your consultation.
Plan-managed NDIS participants: In the case of plan-managed participants, the invoice will be emailed to your plan manager.
REFERRALS & FUNDING
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No, referrals are not required to see a dietitian.
However, at Emma Keenan Dietitian, we require all clients to maintain regular engagement with their GP or another qualified medical professional to ensure your ongoing medical safety.
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Referrals can be sent via:
Email: referrals@emmakeenandietitian.com.au
Secure messaging service: Argus, Inca, and Referral Net
Patient portal: Halaxy software allows you to create your own login, where you can securely upload and share files. Patient Portal Guide.
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Many private health insurance policies with extras coverage provide benefits for seeing an Accredited Practising Dietitian. However, the benefits and annual limits vary depending on your policy. It's best to check with your provider before your consultation.
After your consultation, you will receive a receipt with the necessary information to make a claim.
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Yes, your disability may mean you require support to manage your nutrition. Nutrition support can be provided by an Accredited Practising Dietitian.
Emma Keenan Dietitian supports participants who are:
Self-managed
Plan-managed
Nutrition support can be claimed under:
Core Supports - Assistance with Daily Life
Capacity Building - Improved Daily Living
Capacity Building - Improved Health and Wellbeing
MEDICARE REBATES
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Yes, if your doctor has referred you to a dietitian on an eligible care plan, you will qualify for a Medicare rebate.
Please be aware that we do not provide bulk-billing services and there will be a gap payment.
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People with a chronic health condition expected to last longer than 6 months may be eligible for a Medicare rebate with an Enhanced Primary Care Plan (EPC)/Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDM). Talk to your GP to see if you are eligible.
The rebate from Medicare is $60.35 per session for up to 5 sessions per year.
Medicare Referral Form Chronic Medical Conditions and Complex Needs
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If you are eligible your GP can create an eating disorder plan (EDP). This can include a referral to a dietitian.
The Medicare rebate is $60.35 per session for up to 20 sessions per year.
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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples may be eligible for a rebate from Medicare. Talk to your GP to get a referral.
The rebate is $60.35 per session for up to 5 sessions per year.
Medicare Referral Form Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
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Veterans who hold a Veteran Gold Card are eligible for their dietitian consultations to be bulk billed.
A referral from your GP is required with DVA Form D904
Each referral lasts for up to 12 sessions or 12 months, whichever comes first.