|
In this issue, we share a development in the Dietary Manager's Association and ADA's value to members and encourage you to support your profession as the nutrition experts. |
|
ADA, DMA and Proposed Name Change |
|
The Dietary Manager's Association (DMA) recently announced (to its members only) a proposed name change to the "Association of Nutrition and Food Service Professionals". Its members have until the end of the month of June to cast their vote for or against the new name.
The proposed name poses many concerns for RDs and our professional organization, ADA. There is a potential for much public and other health professionals' confusion as to who is the nutrition professional. A Certified Dietary Manager's (CDM) educational curriculum includes only one nutrition course; the remainder of their education and training to be qualified to take the CDM exam includes food service management, human resources management, and food safety and sanitation. The proposed name for their organization implies that they are the nutrition professionals; this could mislead the public into thinking they have more education and expertise than their credential provides.
Many RDs believe this could put our credibility at stake, and the encroachment upon our professional expertise by another organization will continue to muddy the waters of scope of practice and perhaps directly conflict with dietitian licensure in some states.
The American Dietetic Association is aware of the proposed name change, and ADA's Board of Directors is taking steps to assess the proposal and its impact. The ADA is also actively engaged in obtaining and maintaining licensure of RDs as the provider of medical nutrition therapy. ADA and its members work closely with legislators, policy makers and health care providers on issues related to MNT provision.
ADA is addressing the development regarding the DMA name change as a top priority and will provide further communications to the ADA membership soon. |
|
RD Tip |
ADA is the watchdog of the dietetic profession on our behalf. With the support of ADA, we have a strong voice to ensure that the public and health professionals really know we are the nutrition experts. You can help by becoming an ADA member or by renewing your membership each year. Our future depends on all of us. |
| Dear Dietitian |
|
I have been monitoring this proposal over the past week and have been in direct contact with ADA and CDA. I want you to know that ADA and Nutricopia are working for you. As we hear of new developments and issues that may impact our profession, we will bring that information to you. If you or any of your Dietary Managers have questions or concerns about the proposed DMA name change, feel free to contact me at the Nutricopia office.
Lee Tincher, MS, RD
President, Nutricopia
|
