Monday, December 12, 2011

Florida State Representative Perman Welcomes
Registered Dietitians in Support of Licensure

Registered dietitians, Barbara Truitt and Christina Wyatt visited with State Representative Steve Perman to discuss the importance of supporting the Dietitians / Nutritionists Licensure.
 
Perman, already a supporter offered suggestions when visiting elected officials. 


1. Public Health and Public Safety are important issues to everyone; show how supporting licensure will benefit our communities. 


2. Prior to a meeting, review elected officials’ interests and committees. Your presentation should emphasize how the RD is essential in achieving a positive outcome. 


3. Recommended meeting with the
Florida’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Adam Putnam. Agriculture and Nutrition have a strong relationship. Working together will benefit the people of Florida.


How RDs Benefit
Public Health and Public Safety 

A registered dietitian (RD) is governed by strict guidelines of the Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association and the Florida Dietetic Association in the areas of education; internships; experiences; and continuing education requirements, in order to maintain certification. 



The education of a RD focuses on timely, scientifically based food and nutrition information. The RD is an advocate in educating the consumer, media and other health care professionals on making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. The RD is a crucial member of the health care team; in assessing nutritional status, recommending appropriate plan of care, and maintaining follow-up. 


 Without licensure anyone can call themselves a nutritionist, regardless of education or training. Public health and public safety would be at risk.