Definitions of Disciplinary Action

Censure: A written reprimand expressing disapproval of conduct. It carries no loss of membership or registration status, but may result in removal from office at the national, state and district levels and from committee membership. Time frame--not applicable.

Probation: A directive to allow for correction of behavior specified in Principle 17 of the Code of Ethics for the Profession of Dietetics. It may include mandatory participation in remedial programs (e.g., education, professional counseling, peer assistance). Failure to successfully complete these programs may result in other disciplinary action being taken. It carries no loss of membership or registration status, but may result in removal from office at the national, state, and district levels and from committee membership. Time frame--specified time to be decided on a case-by-case basis.

Suspension: Temporary loss of membership and all membership benefits and privileges for a specified time with the exception of retention of coverage under health and disability insurance. The American Dietetic Association group malpractice insurance will not be available and will not be renewed during the suspension period. Time frame--specified time to be decided on a case-by-case basis.

Suspension of Registration: Temporary loss of credential and all benefits and privileges for a specified period of time. It may include mandatory participation in remedial programs (e.g., education, professional counseling, peer assistance).

At the end of the specified suspension period, membership and registration benefits and privileges are automatically restored. Time frame--specified time to be decided on a case-by-case basis.

Expulsion: Removal from membership and a loss of all benefits and privileges. Time frame--may apply for reinstatement after a 5-year period has elapsed or sooner if the basis for the expulsion has been removed, with payment of a reinstatement fee. Must meet membership requirements in effect at the time of application for reinstatement.

Revocation of Credential: Loss of registration status and removal from registry; loss of all benefits and privileges. Upon revocation, the former credentialed practitioner shall return the registration identification card to the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Time frame--Specified time for reapplication to be decided on a case-by-case basis, but, at a minimum, current recertification requirements would need to be met. A credential will not be issued until the Commission on Dietetic Registration determines that the reasons for revocation have been removed.