SC Alaska News

U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski, Maggie Hassan, Amy Klobuchar, and Shelley Moore Capito have reintroduced a bipartisan bill aimed at improving access to care for seniors and people with disabilities living with eating disorders. The proposed legislation, known as the Nutrition CARE Act, seeks to expand Medicare Part B coverage to include outpatient medical nutrition therapy for those affected by eating disorders.

Senator Murkowski emphasized the importance of this initiative in states like Alaska where resources are limited. She stated that the bill would provide "tailored treatment options that address specific needs," promoting recovery and better health outcomes.

Senator Hassan highlighted the life-threatening impacts of eating disorders on older individuals and those with disabilities. She noted that it is crucial for all Americans to have access to necessary tools for healthy living.

Senator Klobuchar pointed out that millions of Americans suffer from eating disorders regardless of age or background. She stressed that the bipartisan legislation would ensure access to essential medical nutrition therapy through Medicare.

Senator Capito remarked on the potentially life-threatening nature of eating disorders for elderly Americans and those with disabilities. The Nutrition CARE Act aims to help these groups begin their path to recovery by expanding access to necessary services.

Jess Rude, Executive Director of the Alaska Eating Disorders Alliance, praised Senator Murkowski's dedication to lasting recovery efforts. Rude noted that the act increases equity in care and will save lives by including nutrition therapy as part of effective treatment alongside mental and physical health care.

Johanna Kandel, Founder and CEO of the National Alliance for Eating Disorders, expressed gratitude towards Senator Hassan's support for reintroducing the act. Kandel mentioned that this legislation ensures older adults and individuals with disabilities gain access to vital medical nutrition therapy as part of their treatment process.

The Nutrition CARE Act allows various healthcare professionals such as physicians, registered dieticians, nutrition specialists, and mental health professionals to provide medical nutrition therapy services under Medicare. Initially, beneficiaries can receive 13 hours of therapy during their first year accessing services—comprising a one-hour initial assessment followed by 12 hours of reassessment and intervention—and four hours annually thereafter.