Expanding Roles and Opportunities for Dietetics Practitioners in Diabetes Prevention and Care: Reflection on the Past, Speculation for the Future

• Published in: Journal of the American Dietetic Association Vol. 108; no. 4; pp. S4 - S5
• Main Authors: Warshaw, Hope S., MMSc, RD, Heins, Joan M., MA, RD, Goody, Cynthia M., PhD, RD
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01.04.2008; Elsevier Limited
• Subjects: Accreditation; Career Choice; Diabetes; diabetes care; diabetes educators; diabetes mellitus; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 - diet therapy; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 - drug therapy; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 - prevention & control; diet counseling; Diet, Diabetic - economics; Diet, Diabetic - standards; diet-related diseases; Dietetics - methods; Dietetics - trends; Dietitians; disease prevention; Forecasting; Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Health Promotion; human diseases; human nutrition; Humans; Internal Medicine; Nutrition; Nutritional Sciences - education; patient education; professional development; Roles
• ISSN: 0002-8223; 2212-2672; 1878-3570; 2212-2680
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jada.2008.01.025

The evolution and expansion of roles for diabetics practitioners in diabetes care continues to unfold. Here, Warshaw et al reflect on the role of registered dietitians (RDs) in diabetes care and in advancing medical nutrition therapy. To speculate on the future, current roles held by RDs in diabetes care are dovetailed with trends influencing dietetic practice and society. Moreover, the strategies that can prepare and position one for a successful career are provided. Furthermore, reflecting on the roots of the dietetics professional and the development of the expertise in diabetes care along with the exponential rise in the number of people with diabetes allows one to expect strong future growth. Speculating on the future provides an opportunity for dietetics professionals to recognize the existing and expansive opportunities. To exploit these opportunities, RDs should stay abreast of trends, pursue continuing education, and become engaged with their colleagues.