Expanded Services for Medicaid Child/Youth in Voluntary Foster Care Agencies
Effective July 1, 2022, EmblemHealth began covering Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) services offered by 29-I health facilities for Medicaid child/youth in Voluntary Foster Care Agencies. These services are part of the benefits under Other Limited Health Related Services (OLHRS). 29-I MNT services must be provided by a registered dietitian, certified nutritionist, or a certified dietitian-nutritionist. MNT services are intended to:
- Help prevent nutrition-related disease, disability, and/or other health conditions or their progression.
- Help prolong life and/or promote physical and behavioral health and efficiency.
- Achieve specific outcomes, such as:
- Remediate/manage existing nutrition-related health conditions
- Strengthen and maintain optimal health and well-being for children/youth at risk of nutrition-related disease, disability, or adverse health conditions.
- Strengthen self-care skills to promote independence.
Services must be medically necessary and recommended by a physician or other licensed practitioner of the healing arts acting within their scope of practice under New York State law. Documentation of medical necessity for the service must be maintained in the child/youth’s record. Billing for 29-I MNT services must follow the guidance outlined in the 29-I Health Facility Billing Manual. Service fees can be found in the 29-I OLHRS Fee Schedule.
From Sept. 24 – Oct. 24, 2023, 29-I health facilities can submit claims to EmblemHealth for MNT services rendered retroactive to July 1, 2022.
JP 61060 08/2023
