The Use of Digital Health Applications by Registered Dietitians (RDs) in Alberta

Purpose: The growing interest in digital health applications (apps) in dietetic practice prompted the current study aimed to describe app use among Registered Dietitians (RDs) in Alberta. Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey was developed, drafted in REDCap, and tested with RDs. The College of Dietitians of Alberta distributed it to all registered members via email list. RDs registered with the College were eligible to participate. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and single level structural coding of open-ended responses. Results: Of the 290 RDs who partially or fully completed the survey, 74.5% used and 84.9% recommend apps to patients in their practice. Barriers to use include patient technological self-efficacy and uncertainty about which apps to recommend. RDs desire guidance and support from professional organizations in selecting and using apps, highlighting the need for evidence-based evaluation criteria for apps. RDs emphasized the need for user-friendly, evidence-based, secure apps tailored to specific nutrition management needs. Conclusions: RDs in Alberta are using and recommending apps in their practice despite limited evidence regarding their effectiveness in improving health outcomes. Collaborative efforts among RDs, app developers, and health organizations are essential to address current limitations and advance the use of apps in dietetic practice.