Academy Urges Congress: Pass Bill to Expand to Nutrition Care Access

February 27, 2026

CHICAGO – Reintroduced yesterday in the U.S. Senate, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is a proud champion of the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act. This important piece of legislation offers an effective solution to addressing the nation’s continuing rise of diet-related chronic disease by increasing access to medical nutrition therapy (MNT) provided by a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN).

"Studies continue to show MNT administered by an RDN is effective in the treatment and management of chronic conditions, including diabetes and renal disease, while also lowering overall costs to the health care system," said Deanne Brandstetter, MBA, RD, CDN, FAND, the Academy's 2025-26 President. "Expanding access to MNT is an essential piece of the puzzle in improving America’s health and ensuring access to health care for a happy, healthy life."

The Academy thanks U.S. Sens. Susan Collins (Maine) and Gary Peters (Michigan) for introducing the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act of 2026 in the 119th U.S. Congress.

Currently, millions of Americans with serious, chronic medical conditions do not have access to vital nutrition care services provided by RDNs because Medicare only covers MNT for individuals with kidney disease and diabetes. As outlined in the bill, coverage of MNT would be included under Medicare Part B for people with the following chronic conditions:

• Cancer
• Cardiovascular disease
• Dyslipidemia
• Eating disorders
• Gastrointestinal diseases including celiac disease
• HIV/AIDS
• Hypertension
• Malnutrition
• Obesity
• Prediabetes
• Unintentional weight loss

The Medical Nutrition Therapy Act was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives in November 2025 by Reps. Robin Kelly (Illinois) and Jen Kiggans (Virginia). More than 60 health organizations have added their support to the MNT Act and join the Academy in urging Congress to swiftly pass the bill.

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Representing more than 112,000 credentialed nutrition and dietetics practitioners, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Academy is committed to improving the nation's health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy. Visit the Academy at www.eatright.org.