What is a Dietitian?
Dietitians are registered health practitioners who evaluate scientific evidence about food and nutrition and translate it into practical strategies.
Dietitians are registered health practitioners who evaluate scientific evidence about food and nutrition and translate it into practical strategies.
Dietitians use their dietetic knowledge, skills, and judgement in a variety of contexts, which includes promoting and protecting public health, directing and delivering medical nutrition therapy services, and managing food and health systems. They may perform a variety of functions, including direct clinical roles, policy development, leadership, management, research, education, and communication roles.
Dietitians are accountable for ensuring that their practice is consistent with the Dietitians Board’s competency requirements, Code of Ethics and Conduct, and relevant legislation. Dietitians with a prescribing endorsement are able to prescribe special foods and approved nutrition-related medicines.
Inpatient Dietitian Services
The primary focus of the hospital dietitians is to support the service requirements of hospital inpatients and their treatment while in hospital. Patients will be referred as appropriate to a dietitian for specialised input during their admission. The dietitian will assess and recommend nutritional treatment to support the medical management of the patient.
Outpatient Dietitian Services
Some people require nutrition assessment and monitoring in an outpatient setting. Clinic appointments or home visits (as required) may be appropriate. Outpatient clinics are offered at Whangārei Hospital and regionally around Northland.