Nutrition Practice Patient Flow Protocol

Pre-Visit Protocol

Scheduling

• Schedule initial consultations for 60 minutes
• Follow-up visits for 30 minutes
• Collect insurance information and verify coverage
• Send intake forms electronically 48 hours before appointment

Patient Documentation

1. Medical history form
2. 3-day food diary
3. Lifestyle questionnaire
4. Signed consent forms

Day of Visit Protocol

Check-in Process

1. Patient arrives 15 minutes before appointment
2. Front desk verification:
   • Photo ID
   • Insurance card
   • Completed forms
   • Copayment collection

Initial Assessment

1. Medical Assistant:
   • Vital signs
   • Height and weight
   • Body composition analysis (if applicable)
   • Updates to medical history

Nutrition Consultation

1. Nutritionist/Dietitian Tasks:
   • Review medical history
   • Analyze food diary
   • Perform nutrition assessment
   • Develop treatment plan
   • Set SMART goals

Documentation Requirements

• Complete ADIME note
• Document interventions
• Record measurable outcomes
• Update treatment plan

Post-Visit Protocol

Follow-up Planning

1. Schedule next appointment
2. Provide educational materials
3. Send summary to referring physician
4. Schedule follow-up calls if needed

Billing/Coding

• Complete encounter forms
• Submit claims within 24 hours
• Document MNT codes appropriately

Quality Assurance

• Monthly review of patient flow metrics
• Quarterly patient satisfaction surveys
• Regular protocol updates based on feedback