Which of the following is a characteristic of MNT coverage under Medicare?

Medicare Nutrition Therapy (MNT) coverage is designed to provide support for individuals who have specific medical needs that require nutritional intervention. One of the defining characteristics of MNT coverage under Medicare is that it requires a physician's referral. This means that before a patient can access MNT services, a healthcare professional must evaluate the patient’s needs related to nutrition and formally request these services.

The requirement for a physician's referral ensures that MNT is integrated into the patient’s overall care plan and that the nutritional therapy aligns with the medical treatment being provided. This is especially relevant for beneficiaries with conditions such as diabetes or chronic kidney disease, where nutrition plays a critical role in managing health.

Understanding this requirement helps clarify the structure and purpose of Medicare's MNT coverage, emphasizing collaborative healthcare management rather than unrestricted access or limitations based on age or food types. Coverage is not unconditional, nor does it pertain only to certain food types, allowing for a more individualized approach focused on the patient’s health status.