Reps. Kelly, Kiggans introduce Medical Nutrition Therapy Act
WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Robin Kelly (IL-02) and Congresswoman Jen Kiggans (VA-02) introduced the bipartisan Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2025 to expand Medicare coverage for medical nutrition plans and addressing health disparities.
"Far too many people in underserved communities experience adverse health outcomes due to limited access to healthcare, healthy foods, and opportunities for exercise,” said Rep. Robin Kelly, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Health Braintrust. “Medical nutrition therapy is a proven method for managing and alleviating symptoms of many chronic illnesses and diseases beyond diabetes and kidney diseases. It is essential that Congress ensures affordable access to this proven treatment for all diseases related to nutrition. Through this legislation, I’m committed to expanding access to nutritious foods for everyone.”
"I’m proud to join Rep. Kelly in leading the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2025. As a nurse practitioner, I’ve seen firsthand how often the value of medical nutrition therapy is overlooked—and yet how important it is for patients, especially our older population,” said Rep. Kiggans. “This legislation takes an important step forward by expanding access to MNT for patients living with multiple chronic conditions, helping them better manage their health and improve their quality of life. Our seniors and families deserve every tool available to stay healthy, and expanding access to proven, preventive care like MNT is a commonsense way to do just that.”
Currently, Medicare only covers medical nutrition therapy for patients with diabetes or renal disease. The Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2025 will provide Medicare beneficiaries with greater access to registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) by expanding the availability of nutrition services under Medicare Part B.
This expansion would include coverage for the following diseases: diabetes and prediabetes; renal disease; obesity; hypertension; dyslipidemia; malnutrition; eating disorders; cancer; gastrointestinal diseases, including celiac disease; HIV and AIDS; cardiovascular disease; and any other disease or condition specified by the Secretary related to unintentional weight loss.
Furthermore, the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act will authorize nurse practitioners, physician assistants, clinical nurse specialists, and psychologists to refer their patients for medical nutrition therapy.
The Medical Nutrition Therapy Act is endorsed by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
“Despite proven success, medical nutrition therapy (MNT) continues to be underutilized and under covered across our health care system, including Medicare,” said Deanne Brandstetter, MBA, RD, CDN, FAND, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ 2025-26 President. “Currently, Medicare covers MNT for people with kidney disease and diabetes. With this bill, coverage of MNT would expand to include other chronic diseases such as obesity and cardiovascular disease, and Americans will see overall health improvements, from weight management and lower blood pressure to improved blood lipids and blood sugar control. America’s health is at a crossroads and with the current spotlight on nutrition, the time to act is now. The Academy applauds Representatives Kelly and Kiggans for leading the charge to increase access to MNT provided by registered dietitians, a practical, cost-effective way to improve health outcomes, prevent complications and reduce health care spending. It’s one of many steps we must take to address the nation’s health concerns.”