Dietetic Scopes of Practice Across Canada

The purpose of this study was to explore the concept of scope of practice in dietetics in Canada.

Using interpretative description methodology, data were collected through 4 phases. This article reports on phases I and IV. In phase I, 8 provincial dietetic regulatory bodies participated in semi-structured telephone interviews on dietetic scope of practice. Phase IV consisted of a document analysis of Canadian dietetic scope of practice statements.

A review of dietetic statements found in legislation across Canada has shown considerable variability in terms of length, wording, and reference to specific practice areas. Phase I participant discussion focused on 3 concepts: creating a scope of practice, using a scope of practice, and perceived or expected outcomes of a scope of practice.

Dietetic scopes of practice statements are a product of a complex multi-player process. The nature of provincial health care makes it unrealistic to expect similar dietetic scope of practice statements across all provinces. However, maintaining relationships between dietetic regulatory bodies can aid in the replication of ideas, best practices, and policies between provinces.