FAQs
What is the difference between a Registered Dietitian and a Nutritionist?
A dietitian can be a nutritionist, but a nutritionist cannot be a dietitian.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are licensed healthcare professionals who complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree, a supervised internship, a national exam, and ongoing continuing education. The title “nutritionist” is not legally regulated and does not require formal training.
Why it matters
Because “nutritionist” is not a protected title, anyone can use it regardless of education or credentials. This can lead to misinformation, unsafe recommendations, and diet culture messaging.
Why work with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
RDNs are qualified to provide personalized, evidence-based nutrition care and medical nutrition therapy for conditions such as diabetes, digestive concerns, cardiovascular disease, and more. They take a whole-person approach to food and health and can bill insurance for their services.
Does Northern Nutrition Group accept my insurance?
We are in-network with most major insurance providers and are continuously expanding our network. Coverage varies by plan and is not guaranteed, so we encourage you to verify your benefits.
What services will my insurance policy cover?
Most insurance companies cover all nutrition services performed by a dietitian. However, there are some specific plans that may not have nutrition benefits. We welcome you to call your insurance company to inquire about this. Use the Benefit Determination Guide to help navigate this conversation.
Can I be seen at Northern Nutrition Group if I don't have insurance?
Yes. We offer self-pay options and reduced rate packages to those without insurance.
How do I fill out my intake paperwork?
After your appointment is scheduled, you will receive an email from Northern Nutrition Group with a link to the new patient intake forms. All paperwork can be filled out online through our HIPAA compliant system.
Can my partner and I come together?
Yes, we are happy to have appointments with multiple people (partners, family members, friends, etc.) if what you are working on is in alignment with each other. However, if there are different goals for each person, we may recommend having individual appointments with separate dietitians with periodic joint appointments. Schedule a free 15-minute clarity call to determine what would be the best fit for your situation.
Do you offer virtual appointments/Telehealth?
Yes, Northern Nutrition Group uses a HIPAA-compliant virtual platform so we can meet patients wherever they are in Montana.
How long do appointments last?
Initial diabetes appointments are 90 minutes. Initial appointments for all other concerns are 75 minutes. Follow-up sessions are typically 60 minutes and may shorten to 45, 30 or 15 minutes as progress is made.
However, all appointments are personalized and can be scheduled to fit your budget and availability, starting at 30 minutes.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes! Give us a call and our office coordinator will get you scheduled with the dietitian who best fits your needs.
How do I send or have a referral sent to Northern Nutrition Group?
Referals can be faxed to 406-551-1420 or emailed to contact@northernnutritiongroup.com. You can also use our referral form or contact form to begin the process.
Which insurance carriers are you in network with?
We accept most major insurance plans, including Blue Cross and Blue Shield, PacificSource, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna Healthcare, Medicare, Medicaid, HMK, Allegiance, Mountain Health CO-OP, and First Choice Health.
How do I become a trusted referral partner?
We’re always looking to connect with providers who share our values and approach to care. When clients need support beyond nutrition, we want to offer them trusted and collaborative options outside our scope.