Nutrition Services (Dietary)

For appointments call: 636-949-9600
For questions call: 636-947-5163

Outpatient Dietitians

SSM St. Joseph Health Center:

SSM St. Joseph Medical Park:

Jill Kirks, RD, LD
Laura Harms, RD, LD

Shital Mehta, MS, RD, LD

Diabetes Educator

SSM St. Joseph Health Center and
SSM St. Joseph Medical Park:

Patty Shelton, RN, BSN, CDE

What is a Registered Dietitian (RD)?
Registered Dietitians are experts in food and nutrition who have met the criteria from the Committee of Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association. They provide Medical Nutrition Therapy as well as preventative nutrition counseling.

What is Medical Nutrition Therapy?
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is a nutritional diagnostic therapy and counseling service for disease management. Services are provided by a licensed and registered dietitian (RD). The RD provides MNT based on the protocols of the American Dietetic Association developed to improve patient outcomes.

What services are provided?
Our registered dietitians are available to help you with your nutritional needs related to:

Cancer
Diabetes
Allergies
Celiac Disease (Gluten Free)
Liver Disorders
Hypertension
Hypoglycemia
Kidney Disorders
Cardiovascular Disorders
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Weight Management
Pediatric Nutrition

Diabetes Self-Management Training (DSMT)
DSMT is diabetes education provided in a group setting and taught by a registered nurse and the registered dietitian team. Several instructors are certified diabetes educators. MNT complements DSMT by individualizing pt goals and plans. On average, patients who use MNT along with DSMT obtain an additional one-point reduction in their A1C level.

Do I need a referral from my doctor?
A signed order from your physician is required. The order should include a diagnosis code, pertinent lab values, and medication. Following consultations, a progress report is provided to the referring physician.

Will insurance cover my visit?
MNT options (three hours of individual training) for diabetes and renal disease are Medicare benefit programs. Coverage by the other providers for diabetes and other services vary, please check with your specific carrier.

For information on self-pay costs and options please call 636-947-5265.

Nutrition Corner
Tips from your SSM St. Joseph Health Center dietitians

Go Mediterranean and Improve Your Health!

What's a Plant-Based Diet?

Plant-Based Diet Details & Sample Menu

Get Your Plate in Shape!

Choose My Plate

Eat Right