They are in charge of nutritional services for patients. They assess patients' needs and design programs for them. Dietitians confer with doctors and health care workers about patients. Some clinical dietitians specialize in the type of patient they help. For example, they may work with critically ill, diabetic, or overweight patients.
Some clinical dietitians manage small food service departments.
Community dietitians counsel individuals and groups about nutritional practices. They try to prevent disease and to promote good health. These dietitians work in public health clinics and home health agencies. They evaluate individual needs and establish a care plan. Dietitians teach people skills such as how to shop for good groceries.