 |
Choosing a Dietitian |
 |
|
Selecting the right Dietitian
is an important decision. In addition to the ensuring
that the Dietitian is licensed and in good standing
with the regulating state agency, there are other
factors that you should take into account when choosing
the right Dietitian. Education, experience, costs,
location, and up-to-date techniques are just some
of the factors that you might consider when selecting
a Dietitian.
MaryRD.com has general information about the educational
requirements of a Dietitian.
Dietitians are either registered with the Commission
on Dietetic Registration (CDR), a national governing
body, or licensed in the state in which the practice.
Many dietitians are both registered and licensed.
Dietitians are educated in the science of nutrition
through an accredited university and spend a minimum
of 900 hours after graduation, training in a clinical
setting. After completing education and training,
they must also take a national registration exam
or state licensing exam before going into practice.
|
 |
|
| What techniques will
be used to treat my condition? |
Initially, a dietitian
will recommend an individualized nutrition plan after
a thorough interview and assessment. Usually your dietitian
will ask questions regarding your diet and medical history.
Sometimes your dietitian will ask you to write down everything
you ate in the last 3-7 days prior to your appointment.
This helps them to pinpoint exactly where improvements
to your diet can be made. Your dietitian will help you
to add or limit specific foods in your diet to help you
reach your nutrition goals. It is also important for you
to inform your dietitian and medical doctor about any
medications, herbs and dietary supplements you are taking.
|
| What type of treatment
in terms of duration and frequency should you expect?
|
Responses to diet modifications
vary from patient to patient. Some patients will see improvements
very quickly, while it may take longer for others. Typically,
after the initial assessment a follow-up visit will be
made at which time original nutrition goals will be evaluated
to ensure you are on track. The number of subsequent visits
will vary depending on the nature of your condition and
your success with implementing the recommended dietary
modifications.
|
| Do dietitians make
referrals to other health care providers if necessary?
|
| Your dietitian works
as part of a team with your medical doctor to ensure your
individualized care is appropriate. Your dietitian will
also seek counsel and collaborate with other specialists
when necessary. |
| What else should I
consider? |
A
dietitian should:
Practice dietetics based on scientific principles and
current information make every effort to help you improve
your health and wellbeing make recommendations to specialists
as necessary |
| <<
Back |
|
