How long does an appointment take and how much does it cost?
Your initial appointment will take approximately 55 minutes and will cost €100. Follow-up appointments will take 30 minutes, costing €50. During the first appointment, Paula will collate information on the reason for your attendance, an assessment of your nutritional intake and dietary habits, exercise and lifestyle habits, medical history, medications, stress levels, and any relevant blood test results. Paula will also take some anthropometric measurements, including height, weight and body fat percentage. Paula will then advise you based on this assessment and will provide any necessary supporting material.
Follow-up appointments will allow for monitoring of your progress and further advice based on this. |
Do I need to bring anything with me to the appointment?
Please bring a completed food and fluid dairy with you for your first consultation to see Paula. That means writing out what you have eaten and drank in the last week. This is not compulsory but it does help to save time.
It would also be helpful to bring the names of any medications or supplements you are taking, and any other relevant medical information, such as blood test results.
|
Do I have to be referred by a doctor to visit Paula at the clinic?
No, you don’t need to be referred by a doctor or specialist. Dietitians can now see people directly, but it’s sometimes useful to involve/update your GP on any dietary considerations or problems. Anyone can ring to make an appointment for themselves.
In terms of weight loss, it’s best if the overweight person themselves, makes the appt and commits to change. Wanting someone else to change and making an appointment for them generally puts them under stress. They need to be ready themselves to change. It is not useful if you make an appointment for someone else, who is reluctant to change. It has a negative effect on their confidence and ability to succeed in the long term management of their weight.
|
Can I claim fees back from health insurance?
Yes, Paula is a member of the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute, the professional body for Irish Dietitians, entitling you to claim for potential costs from your private health insurance company. The criteria for this, and the level of cover provided, will vary between companies and policies, so do check with your insurer prior to your appointment.
|
