Its goal is to provide learning experiences through which dietetic interns acquire the professional competencies required for practice as registered dietitians. The registered dietitian is the professional member of the health care team who is responsible for the nutritional care of individuals and groups.
Nutrition is a basic component of quality health care.
In hospitals, long-term care facilities, and federal, state and community agencies, the dietitian assesses the nutritional needs of individuals and groups, and develops and implements plans for meeting these nutritional needs. Implementation of the nutrition care plan occurs through the provision of appropriate foods or other forms of nutritional support, individual client counseling or community education. Scientific ability, communication skills and an understanding of people and the influence that ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds play on nutrition are essential qualities of the dietitian. In light of the increasing emphasis on preventive nutrition, registered dietitians can expect to encounter excellent and rewarding opportunities for employment and professional advancement in hospitals, clinics, businesses and private practice.