Standards of practice for gerontological nutritionists: a mandate for action. The American Dietetic Association

Dietitians who had been members of the Gerontological Nutritionists dietetic practice group for more than 2 years were sent a questionnaire to determine demographics of members and to ascertain their level of agreement and compliance with 26 suggested criteria and supporting documentation for standards of practice. Standards of practice for gerontological nutritionists were based on the six Standards of Practice of The American Dietetic Association. Of the 1,571 questionnaires mailed, 415 were returned. Data were analyzed using the StatPac Gold statistical analysis package. All correlation analyses were positive with correlation coefficients in the range of 0.0 to 1.0. Correlation coefficients and mean scores were highest for the standards related to maintaining credentials and adhering to a code of ethics. Compliance was weakest for standards related to conducting research to justify reimbursement for nutrition services (correlation of 0.22) and advocating public policies to ensure quality nutrition care and dissemination of information (correlation of 0.25). Results indicate that to comply with the standards of practice, members need to be proactive in showing efficacy and cost-effectiveness of medical nutrition therapy; conduct, document, and apply outcome research to practice; and advocate public policies affecting older people.