Understood Care
If you are managing a chronic condition or struggling to afford nutritious food, a healthcare advocate can connect you to the right services and benefits. This guide explains what Medicare does and does not cover for nutrition, how advocates link you to community meal programs, and practical steps to get help now.
Nutritious food is essential for energy, healing, and staying independent. Food insecurity can worsen chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease and can raise health costs over time. Advocates screen for food needs early, help you apply for assistance, and coordinate clinical nutrition care when your diagnosis qualifies for covered services.
If you have diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or you received a kidney transplant in the last thirty six months, Medicare Part B covers medical nutrition therapy when your doctor refers you. Covered time includes a set number of hours in the first year and additional hours in later years, with extra hours when medically necessary. Your advocate can help you get the referral, find an in network dietitian, and prepare for the visit.
Medicare also covers intensive behavioral therapy for obesity in primary care. Sessions include screening, a nutrition assessment, and counseling that focuses on diet and physical activity. An advocate can confirm eligibility and help schedule the visits.
Original Medicare does not cover routine groceries or ongoing meal delivery. Some Medicare Advantage plans can offer supplemental benefits for people with chronic illness, which may include meals, food, or produce when these benefits can reasonably improve health or function. Availability varies by plan and by your health status. An advocate can check your plan documents and request the benefit when you qualify.
Routine groceries are not a standard Medicare benefit. If you have a chronic condition, a dietitian can be included, and we can set that up to match your diagnosis and goals. If you are having trouble getting enough food, we can also connect you with agencies that deliver meals to your home, often one or two per day. We do not want you choosing between paying a bill and eating well. Our job is to make sure you are receiving the resources available to you so you can eat nutritious meals regularly. Call us at (646) 904-4027 or visit https://app.understoodcare.com/ and we will help you get started.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps eligible households buy food. Rules include special provisions for older adults and adults with disabilities. Your advocate can help you check eligibility and apply with your state agency.
CSFP provides a monthly package of shelf stable, nutritious foods for adults sixty and older through local agencies. An advocate can help you find the nearest site and complete enrollment.
Local programs provide meals at community sites and home delivered meals for people who qualify. These services also include nutrition screening and education. If you are not sure where to start, an advocate can contact your Area Agency on Aging and place a referral.
You can find local meal programs and aging services by calling 1 800 677 1116 or by using the national Eldercare Locator. Advocates use this tool to identify providers in your area and confirm availability.
Many communities deliver nourishing meals along with a friendly check in. Advocates coordinate enrollment, confirm menus that match your health needs, and problem solve around waitlists or special diets.
An advocate can
A registered dietitian will tailor your plan to your health history, labs, and medicines. If you live with diabetes, kidney disease, heart failure, COPD, or neuropathy, your needs are unique. Your advocate will ask your clinician for a referral when needed and help you prepare.
Bring to the visit
For help speaking up during visits, see https://understoodcare.com/healthcare-info/talking-with-your-healthcare-provider
If you need meals delivered, we will contact providers in your area. That can include Meals on Wheels or another agency that brings ready to eat meals to your home, often once or twice a day. We will confirm nutrition needs such as low sodium, carbohydrate consistent, renal friendly, or blenderized textures and we will check for pet support or friendly visit options if those matter to you.
If you are skipping meals, running low on food, or unsure about coverage for dietitian visits, we are here to help. Call (646) 904-4027 or visit https://app.understoodcare.com/
This content is educational and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized care.
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