Private Practice Dietetics Workforce Development: What 45 Thought Leaders Agree On

Area of Science:

• Dietetics
• Workforce Development
• Private Practice Management

Background:

• Private practice dietetics is expanding, driven by various factors.
• Existing literature indicates gaps in training, preparation, and support for new private practice dietitians.
• This study aimed to achieve consensus on key aspects of private practice dietetics workforce development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop consensus among Australian private practice dietetics experts on workforce development.
• To identify challenges, functions, training needs, support structures, and solutions for private practice dietitians.
• To inform evidence-based recommendations for private practice dietetics training and workforce planning.

Main Methods:

• A modified Delphi questionnaire was administered to Australian private practice workforce development Thought Leaders.
• Participants had extensive experience or standing in private practice dietetics.
• Content validity assessment was used to rate items, with excellent validity (index > 0.78) items included in the framework.

Main Results:

• 116 items related to workforce development achieved excellent content validity after two rounds.
• Key findings include essential entry-level competencies, challenges, and training support strategies.
• Recommendations emphasize incorporating private practice placements and business training in dietetics programs and structured post-graduation support.

Conclusions:

• Expert consensus was reached on private practice dietetics workforce development.
• A collaborative approach involving regulatory bodies, universities, and practitioners is crucial for capacity building.
• This study provides a framework for evidence-based recommendations to enhance training, policy, and strategic planning for the private practice dietetics workforce.