Dietary and Nutrition Services
Cafeteria Options
The cafeteria at Franklin General Hospital is open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.
In addition to visiting the cafeteria, meals are available to family members who are unable to leave a patient's room. Guest trays are brought to the patient's room along with the patient's meals. The cost of this meal is $4.00 and needs to be requested and paid for in advance. Please contact a nurse to arrange this service. You are also welcome to visit the cafeteria to choose your meal and return to eat with your friend or family member.
Vending machines and microwaves are located in the cafeteria and are available 24 hours a day.
Clinical (Inpatient) Nutrition Services
Good nutrition is a key component in recovering from surgery or illness. FGH's registered dietitian provides nutrition care, advice and education to patients while they are in the hospital. The dietitian works with the patient’s medical team, instructing hospitalized patients on diet and monitoring the effectiveness of the nutrition care plan. Patients discharged from the hospital may receive follow-up nutrition counseling on an outpatient basis.
The FGH dietitian works with many clinical areas to ensure the patients are provided with the best nutritional care available.
Outpatient Nutrition Counseling
Individual nutrition education and counseling by a registered dietitian is an effective means for implementing lifestyle changes. Sessions can be scheduled with the FGH dietitian for advice on concerns such as weight management, diabetes management, pregnancy and the basics of healthy eating.
A physician referral may be necessary if a person's insurance provider requires it. A progress note is sent to the referring physician following outpatient counseling. Those interested in private nutritional consultations should check with their insurer to determine coverage.
See more under Diabetic Education.
Community Nutrition Presentations and Events
Franklin General Hospital’s dietitian will come to your business or organization to present on a nutrition topic designed specifically for your group’s interest. Presentations can be adjusted to fit your group’s needs. Call 641.456.5018 for more information or to schedule an appointment. Prices vary; free for non-profit organizations.
Long-Term Care Facility Consultant Work
In addition to doing nutrition assessments for residents of FGH's Franklin Country View nursing facility, Franklin General Hospital’s registered, licensed dietitian is available for long-term care facility consultant work. This includes reviewing menus and special diets, making necessary changes and recommendations. (Cost is $35 per hour.)
To speak with Franklin General Hospital's registered dietitian, call 641.456.5018.
FGH Dietitian Megan Oehlert