Clinical Dietitians Identify a Need for Mentorship in Diabetes

Purpose: Dietitians play a key role in diabetes care. Offering mentorship to increase the capacity of dietitians to provide overall diabetes care may improve outcomes and experiences of people living with diabetes (PWD). The objectives of this study are to assess the perceived need of dietitians for mentorship in diabetes and their preferences for mentorship structure and content. Methods: A 28-question online survey was developed, piloted with 7 dietitians through cognitive interviewing, and disseminated to dietitians in Quebec, Canada. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and survey responses were stratified by years of clinical experience. Results: Of 284 respondents (97% women, mean age 41 ± 10 years), 97% (n = 275) identified a need for mentorship in diabetes. Desire to participate as a mentee, mentor, or both was dependent on years of clinical experience. Formal mentorship was preferred by 41% of respondents, informal by 30%, and 29% preferred a combination of both. The type of mentorship was independent of the years of experience. Finally, 94% believed their confidence levels in providing care for PWD would increase if they participated in mentorship. Conclusion: Mentorship in diabetes was perceived favourably and is believed to increase dietitians' confidence level in caring for PWD and for interprofessional collaboration.