American Specialty Health Networks (ASHN), San Diego, CA, has launched a national Medical Nutritional Therapy™ program that makes dietetic counseling easily accessible as a covered health benefit to millions of Americans nationwide. The program will be available starting January 1, 2002, as either a supplemental benefit plan or included in basic medical plans offered by health plans and employer groups. In addition, ASHN is concurrently launching a discount program to make access to registered dietitians available at a reduced fee for individuals seeking nutritional counseling for any number of lifestyle reasons, from weight management to advice on eating healthier.