On the heels of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA)—two well-publicized national bills where government arguably went too far—comes a state bill, HB 1060, that would ensure only dietitians can practice medical nutrition in Colorado.
According to opponents, this bill would effectively create a monopoly, where registered dietitians (RDs) would be the only option for nutrition health. If passed, anyone who holds themselves out as a nutritionist, naturopath, fitness trainer, complementary doctor, chiropractor, etc., would no longer be able to provide medical nutritional services as part of their practice.
Proponents believe the bill is integral to the safety of the public as it seeks out nutritional services and advice.
First, a little background. HB 1060 originated with the American Dietetic Association, which is promoting new licensure bills in Indiana, New Jersey and West Virginia, in addition to Colorado.
Here is a short excerpt from what was sent to local RDs by the Colorado Dietetic Association:
HB 1060 creates state licensure for Colorado Dietitians. The bill will title protect the word dietitian and licensed dietitian. To receive licensure an applicant must be an RD already or meet the educational, supervised practice standards and pass the RD exam as defined by the Commission of Dietetic Registration. The bill defines dietetics, medical nutrition therapy, and the nutrition care process. The bill also defines the scope of practice as the practice of dietetics including medical nutrition therapy and the nutrition care process. The bill provides exemptions for individuals and retailers and others who provide non-medical nutrition information or services as well as some dietitians who are not practicing in a clinical setting. Dietitians from another state with similar requirements may be licensed by endorsement. To read the bill click here.
Now, it’s true that in Colorado pretty much anyone can call themselves a nutritionist, for example, and they don’t need a set amount of experience, education or training to do so. This obviously poses potential dangers to consumers.
But under this bill it appears that a legitimate nutritionist, who might be 15 years into a successful practice and who has a PhD in nutrition, would no longer be able to provide medical nutrition therapy since they are not a registered dietitian.
While something does need to be done to clarify the nutrition landscape in Colorado, should a monopoly by RDs be the answer?
We have provided information for your state representatives below if you would like to make your voice heard on this issue.
Colorado House Agricultural Members
Jerry Sonnenberg, 303.866.3706, jerry@repsonnenberg.com
Randy Fischer, 303.866.2917, randyfischer@frii.com
Randy Baumgardner, 303.866.2949, randy.baumgardner.house@state.co.us
J. Paul Brown, 303.866.2914, electjpaulbrown@gmail.com
Don Coram, 303.866.2955, don.coram.house@state.co.us
Matt Jones, 303.866.2920, repmattjones@gmail.com
Marsha A. Looper, 303.866.2946, marshalooper@gmail.com
Wes McKinley, 303.866.2398, wes.mckinley.house@state.co.us
Su Ryden, 303.866.2942, su.ryden.house@state.co.us
Ray Scott, 303.866.3068, ray.scott.house@state.co.us
Glenn Vaad, 303.866.2943, glenn.vaad.house@state.co.us
Edward Vigil, 303.866.2916, edward.vigil.house@state.co.us
Roger Wilson, 303.866.2945, roger.wilson.house@state.co.us
Thank you for helping to bring this topic to light. The need for protecting nutritional health is incredibly important. Many have seen advertized diet after diet promising not only weight loss but assistance in several medical issues. The majority if not all of this information is misleading and not based on scientific research. Registered dietetians not only have the biochemical science education but an extended internship that provides hands on learning of the most current and up to date medical treatments. Having a Masters and PhD in nutrition does give you additional research knowledge in nutrition within a very specific scope of a very broad field.
There are many of us out there who know about nutritious foods, proper portion sizes and nutrition related diseases. This does not mean that we have the scientific knowledge to make decisions and recommendations that can risk someones life. Many physicians rely on the RD’s education to assist in the treatment of patients just as they rely on the nurses education. Just because you have a passion for health and wellness should you be allowed to call yourself a healthcare professional? I value my chiropractor and massage therapist very highly and they are the primary source for healing and treatment in my life. I need them to be the best at what they do. Anyone can suggest you eat your vegetables and less fat,cut calories and exercise more. Kevin you must investigate how many people have been hurt or killed due to inaccurate nutrition advise. This is what licensure of RDs in Colorado is about. Colorado is one of three states out of 51 (including DC) that does not have required licensure. It is not about monopoly it is about providing the highest quality nutrition care.
Thanks for making folks aware, Kevin. There is a Facebook page where folks can follow more information as the bill progresses – http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nutrition-Freedom-for-Colorado/. There is a committee meeting on February 6th at 1:30pm to discuss the bill if people would like to attend. I’ll be there! More details can be found on the Facebook page.