Working with a dietitian

A dietitian can help you and your family as you learn new patterns of eating. He or she can help you understand the daily eating plan that is best for you, and can give you written materials that can help you establish new habits.
Your clinic or hospital has many outpatient services that can help you: dietitians, physical therapists, rehabilitation therapists, nurses and others. Ask your health care team what's available in your area.
Ask your doctor for a referral to a clinic or hospital dietitian. However, just because you have a referral doesn't mean your insurance will cover it — talk to your doctor or nurse for more information. If your insurance doesn’t cover a dietitian visit, and you’d like the support and advice of a dietitian, ask your doctor or nurse for a recommendation.

If you are in the hospital, a staff dietitian is available to review heart-healthy eating. Or, after your discharge, your doctor can send a referral to your hospital’s outpatient nutrition department and you can see a dietitian then.

Your clinic or hospital has many outpatient services that can help you — dietitians, physical therapists, rehabilitation therapists, nurses and more. Ask your health care team what's available in your area.