Dietetic Scope of Practice in Saskatchewan: Dietitian Perceptions

Area of Science:

• Dietetics and Nutrition Science
• Health Professions Regulation
• Professional Practice Standards

Background:

• The definition and understanding of professional roles are crucial for effective healthcare delivery.
• Ambiguity in professional roles can lead to confusion among practitioners, employers, and other stakeholders.
• Establishing clear practice guidelines is essential for maintaining professional standards and public trust.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the concept and implications of a defined scope of practice for dietetics in Saskatchewan.
• To understand how Registered Dietitians (RDs) currently interpret their professional roles.
• To identify challenges and opportunities related to scope of practice in the dietetic profession.

Main Methods:

• Interpretative description methodology employed across four study phases.
• Online survey distributed to 92 Registered Dietitians (RDs) in Saskatchewan (Phase II).
• Online focus group conducted with 8 Saskatchewan RDs over three weeks (Phase III).

Main Results:

• Participants recognized significant potential in defining and understanding their scope of practice.
• Current role interpretation relies on a mix of documents and stakeholder input, leading to confusion.
• Confusion exists regarding the dietitian's role among employers, other health professions, and RDs themselves.

Conclusions:

• A defined scope of practice is expected to provide essential guidance for various stakeholders, including RDs, employers, and the public.
• Dietetic regulators must issue clear guidelines on safe practice to members and employers.
• RDs must ensure their practice consistently aligns with provincial policies and their individual expertise.