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Recruiting Hispanics to dietetics: WIC educators' perceptions of the profession
Cynthia J Heiss1, Samantha M Henley, Patricia Daniluk
1Department of Health Professions, Metropolitan State University of Denver, Campus Box 33, PO Box 173362, Denver, CO 80217-3362, USA. cheiss@msudenver.edu
Journal of Allied Health
|December 11, 2012
Summary
Many Hispanic Women, Infant and Children (WIC) educators aspire to become registered dietitians (RDs) but face financial and life barriers. Addressing these challenges and increasing program awareness can boost Hispanic representation in dietetics.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Health Equity
- Professional Development
Background:
- Hispanics represent 12% of the population but only 3% of registered dietitians (RDs).
- Underrepresentation of Hispanic professionals in dietetics poses a challenge to culturally competent nutrition care.
- Hispanic Women, Infant and Children (WIC) educators are a potential demographic for recruitment into the dietetics profession.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore perceptions of dietetics among non-RD Hispanic WIC educators.
- To identify barriers preventing Hispanic individuals from pursuing RD status.
- To determine effective recruitment strategies to increase Hispanic representation in dietetics.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study surveyed 48 Hispanic WIC educators.
- The questionnaire assessed reasons for not pursuing RD status, barriers to representation, and recruitment strategies.
- Data analysis focused on identifying common themes and actionable insights.
Main Results:
- 38% of respondents planned to become an RD; 56% had considered it.
- Major barriers included the high expense (82%) and life circumstances (65%) of RD education.
- Lack of awareness about dietetics, few Hispanic role models, and the lengthy, costly training were cited as reasons for underrepresentation.
Conclusions:
- A significant number of Hispanic WIC educators are interested in becoming RDs.
- Financial support, such as scholarships, and addressing the length and cost of education are crucial.
- Targeted recruitment strategies, including mentoring and community outreach, are needed to increase Hispanic representation in dietetics.
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