Seeing a dietitian will help you improve your health. You'll learn how to eat better and manage health conditions through good nutrition. We can help you find the right dietitian for your needs. Read about booking and going to your first appointment.
Seeing a dietitian can help improve your health and wellbeing. Dietitians treat many chronic and temporary health conditions.
A dietitian will give you personalised nutrition and diet advice.
When you see a dietitian, you might get:
- a nutritional needs assessment
- a personalised eating plan
- nutritional counselling
- healthy eating and shopping advice
- advice to help treat a diet-related illness
Get advice from someone you can trust. Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) are university-qualified experts. APDs must take part in ongoing education and follow a code of conduct.
APDs use the latest evidence to treat health conditions. The advice you get from an APD will be up to date and designed to help your specific needs.
Not all nutritionists are dietitians. Not all dietitians are APDs.
You can check the credentials of a dietitian by searching for their name in our Register of Accredited Practising Dietitians.
Dietitians work in many healthcare settings. You'll find them in hospitals, community health centres and private practice.
When looking for a dietitian, consider their:
- qualifications
- accreditation
- experience
- services
- specialisations
- location or telehealth options
- language and cultural understanding
Our 'Find a dietitian' search tool will help you connect with a professional who understands your healthcare needs.
Your first appointment
At your first appointment, your dietitian will ask about your medical history and health goals. They'll also want to understand your food habits and lifestyle.
Your dietitian will show you how changes to your diet can improve your health.
It's a good idea to take along:
- recent blood test results
- relevant medical records
- Medicare card
- health fund details
Your dietitian might ask you to keep a food diary or fill in a questionnaire before your first visit.
Your first appointment will usually take about 60 to 90 minutes.
Follow-up appointments
This follow-up is important to help you achieve your health goals.
Your dietitian will want to see you again. They might ask you to come for regular visits to check your progress and adjust your plan.
Follow-up appointments usually take about 30 to 45 minutes.
Telehealth
In our online search tool, you can find a dietitian who works via telehealth: delivering health services remotely. This uses technologies, such as telephone, videoconferencing, text messages and web portals.
If you can't get to an in-person appointment, telehealth services can help you.
Referrals
You don't need a referral to see a dietitian. You can make an appointment with any dietitian you choose.
But seeing a GP before your appointment can be helpful. Your doctor might provide insight on a chronic health condition or order a blood test to help the dietitian.
You might need a GP referral to access government benefits, such as Medicare, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA).
Costs
The cost of your dietitian visit will depend on the type of service you need. There's no standard fee for dietitians.
Most dietitians charge between $50 and $150 for a consultation. Rates might be higher for specific services or home visits.
Many dietitians offer concession rates.
Ask about fees when booking your first appointment.
Medicare or other rebates might apply when a dietitian is treating a chronic health condition.
Learn about help with fees.
Questions to ask
You might want to ask your dietitian these questions:
- Are you credentialed with Dietitians Australia?
- What do you charge for consultations?
- Do you have concession rates?
- Do you offer any Medicare, DVA or other rebates?
- Do you offer telehealth services?
- Do you have experience with my health condition?
- How many appointments will I need?
- What am I missing from my diet?
- Can you help me identify any food allergies or intolerances?
- Can you help me find alternatives to takeaway food?
- Are there any foods I shouldn't eat?
- Can you help me with a meal plan that suits my budget and lifestyle?
Get in touch
If you have questions about seeing a dietitian, contact us at info@dietitiansaustralia.org.au