Therapeutic Diet Orders

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services' final rules authorize the participation of RDNs in the issuance of therapeutic diet orders in hospitals and long term care (LTC facilities) if consistent with state laws and facility policy. However, in most states, hospitals and LTC facilities are each governed by different regulations. Therefore, implementation of these privileges may differ depending on the care setting (hospital or LTC).

Accordingly, RDNs should read the Practice Tips referred to in each section to guide implementation of the CMS rules. Additionally, RDNs and state affiliate policy leaders should become familiar with their state facility licensing regulations.

The implications of state licensure or certification regulations on order writing privileges should also be considered. Facility legal counsel and/or a regulatory compliance officer should also be consulted to ensure the process is consistent with state laws and all facility policies and bylaws.