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By Amanda Carter


The common method of offering nutritional counseling is in a classroom, clinical setting, and hospital. However, with the current growth in technology and almost everything in the world being digitalized, professional nutritionist are providing services via the online platform. Counseling services can be provided via Internet and phone calls. At times, the service provider may decide to meet with clients in public places such as restaurants, coffee shops, and so on. An online Nutritionist can offer counseling services and assist clients to observe their weight and live a healthy life.

With a smartphone or a laptop and internet connection, there is no limitation to what can be achieved in terms of real time communication and research. For example, clients can conduct rigorous research and design their own dieting plan by using information available in blogs and online publications. In addition, they can utilize the live chat platform to connect with professional nutritionist. They can utilize the opportunity presented by the online avenue to make any type of inquiries. Clients are able to receive counseling services irrespective of their geographical location. Negotiation for the price of the services is also possible.

The common methods of delivering virtual nutrition range from two-way video conferencing, emails, to social media. Nowadays, most people have Facebook and Twitter accounts. The nutrition professional can open a social media account purposely for enlightening the patients. They can make follow-ups via phone calls. With the advance in technology, it is possible to receive services such as Tele-nutrition, e-counseling, and e-therapy. The dietician may offer counseling service to clients when they are still in their houses.

Traditional nutrition service delivery entails booking appointments, which may consume much time. When virtual nutrition is adopted, there is no need to book appointment. Patients can receive services in in between breaks. It is possible for patients to engage in other productive activities with the time that is created. Patients that live in inaccessible areas should embrace virtual care and minimize movement cost associated with travelling to the office of the dietician. Symptoms of migraines such as heartburn and digestion complication can be eliminated when an effective dietary plan is adopted.

Virtual nutrition is both time and cost effective. There is no need to book appointment or meet the dietician for follow-up treatment. The expert can review the progress that is made through questioning. Since the nutritionist is likely to handle large number of patients, the cost of service delivery is significantly reduced.

The nutrition expert enjoys the flexibility presented by virtual care services. She or he will be able to function as an employee and pursue private practice. To succeed in virtual nutrition, the service provider must be business-minded.

Since most services are offered via phone calls or Skype, accessing patients is easier. Nowadays most people are glued to their phone hence prompt response is possible. Patients are provided with a chance to cancel via phone call instead of travelling to the office.

With the increased popularity in Tele-health, some insurance companies are covering virtual nutrition. This way, the medical bill can be settled by the health insurance policy. Most professionals follow the state laws and regulation for effective delivery of nutrition therapy.




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