08/17/06

Protecting Nutritional Health in Michigan: State Becomes 46th to License Dietitians

FOR RELEASE AUGUST 17, 2006

Media contacts:  Jennifer Starkey, Tom Ryan
800/877-1600, ext. 4802, 4894
media@eatright.org

CHICAGO – Following three decades of effort and encouragement by registered dietitians in Michigan, the state has become the 46th in the nation to require a license to practice as a dietitian. The American Dietetic Association praises the Michigan legislature and Gov. Jennifer Granholm for taking this significant step in recognizing the value to the public of registered dietitians in an evolving health-care environment.
 
“Until now, anyone could provide nutrition services in Michigan, whether they were qualified or not,” said registered dietitian Beth Thayer, a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. “ADA believes this action will go far toward protecting the public and improving the health of Michigan’s residents.”

On Tuesday, August 15, Gov. Granholm signed Enrolled Bill S. 403, which establishes a licensure framework for dietitians and nutritionists, sets license fees and creates the Michigan Board of Dietetics and Nutrition. It takes effect July 1, 2007. The law prohibits a person from using the title “dietitian” or “nutritionist” without a license.

“The words ‘dietitian’ and ‘registered dietitian’ reflect specific education, training and credentialing, conveying information to patients that is extremely important in treating diseases and conditions with nutrition-related components such as diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease,” Thayer said.

“Knowing that a nutrition professional is licensed is equally important to doctors when referring patients to an RD. With health care more likely to be offered at clinics or offices through outpatients services than in a hospital, it is essential that patients go to the professionals who are recognized as the qualified experts in providing nutrition care.”

Hundreds of Michigan Dietetic Association members worked over three decades to lay the groundwork in the legislature about dietetics licensure, and their work contributed to this success. The bill signed by Gov. Granholm is similar to legislation that was passed in 1998 but vetoed by then Gov. John Engler. “The health-care and political environments in 2006 are more pro-nutrition than they were in the past,” Thayer said.

Michigan joins South Carolina as the two states that have licensed dietitians in 2006, leaving RDs in just four states – Arizona, Colorado, New Jersey and Wyoming – without licensure, certification or title protection.

With approximately 65,000 members, the American Dietetic Association is the nation’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. ADA serves the public by promoting optimal nutrition, health and well-being. To locate a registered dietitian in your area, visit ADA at www.eatright.org.

###