Nutrition Services
The Nutrition Clinic provides Medical Nutrition Therapy for inpatients and outpatients at the Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton and outlying clinics. Access to the Nutrition Clinic for an initial appointment and/or class is available to any Tricare beneficiary with a referral from a medical provider. Active duty service members can self-refer for general nutrition or weight information. Once a referral has been received from your medical provider, we will call you to set up an appointment.
Dietitian or Nutritionist? All Dietitians are nutritionists, but not all nutritionists are Dietitians. Registered Dietitians are the only nutrition experts! Be cautious of others who say they are "nutritionists". Only Registered Dietitians have a bachelor's degree (or higher) in nutrition, have completed an accredited internship, passed the national RD exam, and do continuing education credits annually. A "nutritionist" does not have to have any nutrition education or credentials in the state of California.
Take advantage of this available service! Dietary counseling from a Registered Dietitian could potentially cost hundreds of dollars an hour since it is not covered by Tricare or other health insurance, but you have access to this service for FREE at the Naval Hospital! Anything can be related to nutrition, from cholesterol, to headaches, to digestive problems, etc. So whether you just want to lose weight, your child is a picky eater, or you want to better manage your blood sugar, ask your provider to send a referral to the Nutrition Clinic. The Registered Dietitians will help you.