Angie Craig: “this morning, I stand to introduce with my colleague from New Mexico, Jeff Bingaman, legislation that will be called the…”

“this morning, I stand to introduce with my colleague from New Mexico, Jeff Bingaman, legislation that will be called the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 1997. I think we have all heard of the old adage that ``an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.'' That is very true in the legislation that we are proposing today, along with our colleagues from the House. Simply stated, medical nutrition therapy involves the assessment of the nutritional status of patients with a condition, illness, or injury that puts them at nutritional risk. Once a problem is identified, a registered dietitian can work with the patient to develop a personal therapy or treatment. Almost 17 million Americans each year, mostly the elderly, are treated for chronic illnesses or injuries that place them at risk of malnutrition. But because of medical nutrition therapy, in many instances, this can be resolved. The only problem today is that these preventive measures are not covered by Medicare. Our legislation would simply provide coverage under Medicare part B for medical nutrition therapy services furnished by registered dietitians and nutrition professionals. This is necessary so that the elderly are not denied effective low-technology treatment of their needs. I had the privilege of touring several hospitals in Idaho where medical nutrition therapy is now being used, and the results are dramatic.”