Federal Policy Initiatives

Child Nutrition Reauthorization provides an opportunity to elevate nutrition in the Child Nutrition and WIC programs.

Diabetes Self-Management Training addresses barriers identified by the Academy and our partners in the Diabetes Advocacy Alliance for Medicare beneficiaries to utilize DSMT benefits.

The Academy supports the development, dissemination and implementation of evidence-informed, inclusive Dietary Guidelines that embrace culture and diverse dietary patterns.

The Academy advocates for a Farm Bill that supports nutrition security and equity, better access to healthful and culturally appropriate foods, sound science and program evaluation for future evidence-based decision making, and a healthful and sustainable food system.

Federal nutrition policies – particularly those related to food labeling and food reformulation – can help consumers make healthier choices while incentivizing industry to improve the nutritional quality of foods offered.

The Academy advocates for the inclusion of RDNs and NDTRs in Food as Medicine initiatives.

Expands Medicare Part B coverage for additional conditions (e.g., prediabetes, obesity) and referral sources.

The Academy advocates for preventing cuts and improving Medicare Part B payment rates for RDNs.

Seeks Medicare coverage for weight loss drugs and expanded behavioral therapy providers.

Focuses on reauthorization to ensure nutrition services for seniors.

The requirements to become an RDN often leave aspiring practitioners with substantial student loan debt, while entering a field that historically offers modest starting salaries compared to other health professions.

Telehealth has become an essential tool for expanding access to RDNs services for older adults, people with disabilities, individuals in rural areas, and those managing chronic conditions like diabetes or kidney disease.