Cost-Effectiveness of Medical Nutrition Therapy: A Systematic Review of Healthcare Utilization and Economic Outcomes

Abstract

Background: Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is a core component of evidence-based clinical care, particularly in the management of chronic diseases. Despite strong clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness, its economic value in reducing healthcare costs and optimizing resource utilization remains inconsistently synthesized.

Objective: This systematic review aims to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of MNT and its impact on healthcare utilization and economic outcomes across diverse clinical settings.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, were searched for studies published between 2016 and 2025. Eligible studies included economic evaluations assessing MNT interventions in clinical populations. Data were extracted and synthesized narratively, focusing on cost outcomes, healthcare utilization, and cost-effectiveness measures such as incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs).

Results: The findings indicate that MNT is associated with significant reductions in hospital admissions, length of stay, and overall healthcare expenditures, particularly among patients with diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and malnutrition. Several studies demonstrated favorable cost-effectiveness profiles, with MNT interventions yielding improved clinical outcomes at lower or comparable costs.

Conclusion: MNT represents a cost-effective strategy that enhances patient outcomes while reducing healthcare utilization. Its integration into routine clinical practice is essential to support value-based healthcare systems and improve economic efficiency..