Can CPTs medical nutrition therapy codes (97802-97804) be used by a physician?
A.- For Medicare Part B coverage of Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT), only a registered dietitian or nutrition professional may provide the services. While these requirements may preclude you from billing Medicare, it may not preclude you from billing commercial carriers for MNT services. Be sure to check individual plans for coverage and provider requirements. For medical nutrition therapy assessment and/or intervention performed by a physician, the physician should submit the appropriate E/M codes (e.g., office visit or preventive medicine services codes).
