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Nutrition

Tri-City Medical Services

Nutrition2021-02-12T05:42:18-08:00
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TCMC Food & Nutrition

For More Information
About Tri-City Medical
Center’s Outpatient Nutritional
Counseling Program
Please Call 760.940.7726
8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Tri-City Nutrition Information

Nutrition Department

If you would like to improve your health and nourish your body, the nutrition experts at Tri-City Medical Center are here to help.

As registered dietitians at Tri-City Medical Center we provide medical nutrition and nutrition counseling in a variety of settings. We design a clinical nutrition plan for all patients within the hospital and provide one-on-one counseling and group classes in an outpatient setting. Our outpatient medical nutrition therapy program is designed for people living with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, celiac disease, etc. We also provide nutrition education to pregnant women seeking prenatal care and individuals desirous of counseling for weight management and overall healthy eating habits.

Each of our dietitians is an expert in their specialty, so whether you recently had a heart surgery or are newly diagnosed with diabetes- you’re in good hands. Receiving the correct nutritional information from a registered dietitian can help you maintain or improve your health while aiding in your fight against a variety of illnesses.

Some of the most serious health conditions – obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease – can be prevented or managed through simple lifestyle changes and healthier habits. If you would like to improve your health by eating better, the nutrition experts at Tri-City Medical Center are here to help.

Our outpatient medical nutrition therapy program is designed for people living with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or celiac disease. We also consult with pregnant women seeking prenatal care and people who would like counseling for weight management and overall healthy eating habits.

During your first visit with one of our dieti­tians, we’ll review your medical history, current eating habits and personal wellness goals. We then develop a personalized nutrition plan that’s right for you. Our goal is to help you make long-term changes in your eating habits and lifestyle, providing encouraging support and advice along the way.

Individual and group counseling sessions are available through the medical nutrition therapy program

You’ll learn how to read food labels, modify recipes, and make smarter choices when planning meals, grocery shopping, and eating out. You’ll find answers to your ques­tions about fad diets and weight-loss myths. Plus, you’ll understand the importance of physical activity, portion control, and bal­anced meals in meeting and maintaining your health-improvement goals.

Whatever your motivation — losing weight, increasing energy, preventing disease or complications from a current medical condition — the nutrition therapy program at Tri-City Medical Center provides some of the area’s most comprehensive dietetic counseling.

A physician referral is required for outpatient medical nutrition therapy at Tri-City Medical Center. Some insurance carriers may provide reimbursement for program fees, but some participants may be required to cover the cost themselves. Before scheduling a con­sultation, please check with your insurance company.

For more information about Tri-City Medical Center’s Outpatient Nutritional Counseling Program, please call: 760.940.7726

Please bring the following items to your nutrition therapy appointment:

    Physician prescription complete with order & diet recommendation
    A referral may be required by your insurance company; please check with your provider
    List of medications and nutritional supplements you take currently
    Any pertinent lab test results
    Medical insurance information
    Food diary and/or blood sugar records that you have been keeping

Our areas of expertise include:

  • Bariatric (weight-loss) surgery
  • Cancer
  • Cardiac rehabilitation
  • Celiac disease
  • Diabetes
  • Digestive disorders
  • Elevated cholesterol
  • Gestational diabetes
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Kidney disease
  • Obesity
  • Osteoporosis
  • Prenatal care
  • Sports nutrition
  • Ulcers
  • Weight management

Our areas of expertise include:

  • Medicare Part B beneficiaries with a diagnosis of diabetes or non-dialysis kidney disease are eligible for medical nutrition therapy.
  • A referral from your physician, including the appropriate diagnosis and qualifying blood work, is required for the benefit.
  • Medicare Part B reimburses three hours of nutrition therapy for the first year and two hours each year thereafter.

Our Amazing Staff

Dino-Cinquemani

Dino Cinquemani, RDN

I was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley located in Los Angeles, CA and am number 5 of 8 children. I moved to San Diego where I got my Bachelor’s of Science at San Diego State University. I have been working at Tri-City Medical Center since 2003, and I now specialize in diabetes education. My wife is Puerto Rican, so my favorite food is Puerto Rican food. Outside of work I enjoy hanging out with my wife & 5 year old daughter, swimming, cycling, & working with wood.

 

benilda-milan-aglugub

Benilda Milan-Aglugub, RDN, CDE, IBCLC

I’m originally from the Bay Area and have been living in San Diego for 12 ½ years. I graduated from San Francisco State University with a Bachelor of Science –Dietetics & Bachelor of Arts – Child Development. I specialize in NICU (neonatal intensive care unit), OB & Oncology. I like to eat Filipino and Mexican food. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my daughter & watching her play softball. I also like gardening, walking, jogging, and shopping.

Kelli-Gecewicz

Kelli Gecewicz, MS, RD

I obtained my BS in Nutrition from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and received my MS in Nutrition and completed the dietetic internship at Boston University. I enjoy educating patients regarding their diets in the individual and group setting. I also enjoy learning about and implementing nutrition support. My favorite food is currently steel cut oats w/ honey & almond butter. When not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing at the park with my kids, and running.

 

Patricia Matthews, RD

I earned my BS in Nutrition and Dietetics and completed my Dietetic Internship at California State University, Chico. In the clinical nutrition setting I cover mostly cardiology and geriatrics. I discovered my love of nutrition through my love of food. I especially love Thai, Mexican and Italian food. Outside of work I enjoy hiking, running, a good book, and spending as much time as possible at the beach.

Emily Smith, MS RDN

Emily Smith, MS RDN

I am originally from Seattle where I earned my MS in Nutrition from Bastyr University. I moved to beautiful San Diego to complete my dietetic internship at UC San Diego and have no plans to leave! I love everything nutrition and have a special interest in cardiology and weight management. At home, I like putting a whole foods twist on classic recipes and utilizing lots of fresh ingredients in the kitchen. Beyond nutrition, I enjoy running, playing with my dog, and spending time at the beach.

Rachel Hosfield RDN

Rachel Hosfield, RDN

I completed my BS in Nutrition at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and my dietetic internship through Oregon Health and Science University in Portland. As a new addition to the clinical nutrition team, I love diabetes education and nutrition support. My favorite foods are Mexican and Thai food. Outside of work I enjoy hiking, reading, swimming, and going to the beach.

Vuong Nguyen, MS RD

Vuong Nguyen, MS RD

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in General Biology from UCSD. I also obtained a Master’s degree in Nutritional Science and completed the dietetic internship through the Coordinated Dietetics Program at Cal State University, Los Angeles to pursue a career in dietetics. As an accessible Registered Dietitian, I aim to provide culturally appropriate nutrition education and support that will empower surrounding communities to be proactive in personalizing their health betterment. During my leisure time, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and dog, Oliver. I also enjoy outdoor adventures, running, and traveling the world.

 

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