No. You can book directly with a Registered Dietitian in private practice in Ontario without seeing a doctor first. That is how appointments work at our Gloucester clinic.
When a referral or note still matters
- Your insurance. Some extended health plans ask for a doctor’s note before they reimburse dietitian visits. That rule comes from the insurer, so check your benefits booklet or call them before your first visit.
- Hospital programs. Dietitian services run through hospitals generally need a physician referral.
- Family Health Teams and Community Health Centres. Their dietitians usually see registered patients of that team, often by internal referral.
Should I tell my doctor anyway?
It helps, especially if you have a medical condition, take medication that is affected by food, or have recent bloodwork. Bring any lab results and a list of medications and supplements to your first visit.
When to see a doctor first
Book with your doctor before a dietitian if you have unexplained weight loss, trouble swallowing, ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, blood in your stool, or new symptoms that worry you. Go to emergency for chest pain, fainting or signs of a severe allergic reaction.
Booking with us
Our dietetics service starts with an initial assessment. Follow-up sessions and meal planning are booked after that first visit, so the plan is based on a full picture of your health and goals. Fees are on our Pricing page.