Nutrition CARE Act of 2025

This bill would have Medicare cover medical nutrition therapy (nutrition counseling) for people with eating disorders. The care must be provided by a registered dietitian or nutrition professional, after a referral from a doctor, psychologist, or other allowed mental health professional. Covered eating disorders would follow the latest medical definitions used in the DSM.

Starting January 1, 2026, patients could receive at least 13 hours of counseling in the first year (one hour for the first visit and 12 hours for follow‑ups), and at least 4 hours each year after. The health department may set other reasonable limits. Today, Medicare generally does not cover this kind of nutrition therapy in outpatient care for eating disorders; this bill aims to fill that gap and improve treatment access.

• Who is affected: People on Medicare who have an eating disorder.
• What changes: Medicare would cover nutrition therapy by a registered dietitian or nutrition professional, with a referral from a doctor or mental health professional.
• When: Coverage would start January 1, 2026.
• How much care: At least 13 hours the first year, then 4 hours each year after.