FAQ

Can I claim the costs of Dietitian Services?

Services of a Registered Dietitian are covered by many private insurance plans as well as through ‘additional’, wellness, or ‘extended’ health plans. However you must check if your specific provider covers these services. Note: Alberta Health Services (AHS) does not cover dietitian services.

You can also claim the fees paid to a Registered Dietitian as a medical expense/credit on your Canadian Income Tax return. The Canada Revenue Agency under the Income Tax Act recognizes a Registered Dietitian as an ‘Authorized Medical Practitioner’.

Is any person who has studied nutrition considered a Dietitian?

No. The designation of ‘Registered Dietitian’ is protected by Law in Alberta. Other protected titles for dietitians include the initials RD, Dietitian, and Registered Nutritionist. Recently in May 2016, the Alberta Government amended Part 10 of the Health Professions Act to add “Nutritionist” as a protected title also. It is currently pending proclamation by the Alberta government. Just like medical doctors, a Registered Dietitian must meet a minimum set of requirements set out in Alberta, by the College of Dietitians of Alberta, and the Health Professions Act. These include:

Graduating from an accredited University, upon completion of a 4-year degree program (B.Sc.) in Human Nutrition, Food and Nutrition or similar.

Successfully completing an additional year of an accredited Dietetic Internship; holding a certificate of practical training from an accredited hospital or community care facility approved for providing the internship training.

Passing a National Canadian Dietetic Registration Exam.

Holding a valid practice permit and registration with the regulatory body; In Alberta, The College of Dietitians of Alberta.

Annual renewal of the practice permit by completing an annual continuing competence Program.

What services does a Dietitian provide and how will this benefit me?

Your dietitian is a trusted and reliable expert for a range of nutrition-health related services that focus on wellness, prevention, strengthening your health, and for dietary treatment for a variety of medical conditions. See our Services Page for specific personalized services.

Will I need a doctor’s referral to see a dietitian?

NO. You may self-refer. However, if you have a medical condition for which you are seeking nutrition therapy, a doctor’s referral is helpful in order to access pertinent test results from your doctor, and to keep your doctor updated of your progress.

Do I need to make an appointment?

Yes. Due to the nature of individualized services and the time required, it is necessary to set up an appointment. Appointments may be requested by email by completing our booking form HERE or by calling 403-245-6500. Basic information along with billing (credit card) information will be collected at the time of booking.

What are your hours of service?

Monday to Friday with limited appointments on some Saturdays: All appointments are pre-booked.

What if I cannot keep my appointment?

We recognize that occasionally unexpected emergencies can arise making it difficult for you to keep your appointment, and therefore make a sincere effort to be reasonable. As this time has specifically been reserved for you, we require at least 48 hours or more for a cancellation without a charge. For any cancellation notice between 24 to 48 hours prior to your appointment, a $75.00 fee will be billed to your credit card. The full fee for the service you booked will be billed to your credit card for No shows and cancellations on the day of your appointment.

What forms of payment do you accept?

Debit card, Credit card (Visa and Mastercard).

Do you bill directly to the Group or Extended Health Plan Insurer?

Yes, we can direct bill your extended health insurer if you are eligible for dietitian services and assign the claim for direct billing to us. Note however, some insurers will only reimburse clients directly. In that case it is our practice that the client pays the clinic upon receipt of services at the time of their appointment, and for you to claim back the fees from your insurer with the formal receipt that the clinic will provide.