What Is a Medical Nutritionist?
A medical nutritionist is a health care professional responsible for planning nutrition and dietary programs for organizations and individuals. Nutritionists help prevent and treat health conditions by recommending dietary modifications and promoting healthy eating habits.
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Employment
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The majority of medical nutritionists work in hospitals, outpatient care centers, nursing care facilities and doctors' offices. Some medical nutritionists become independent consultants and work with individual clients.
Education
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Medical nutritionists must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in foods and nutrition, food service systems management, dietetics or a related area. Graduate degrees in these fields are also available.
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Licensure
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While requirements vary according to state, medical nutritionists must be licensed in 35 states before they can legally offer their services. Twelve states require state certification instead of licensure.
Certification
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The Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) awards an optional registered dietitian (RD) credential to individuals who graduate from accredited programs, complete an internship and pass their professional exam. The RD certification must be renewed every five years.
Salary
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According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), nutritionists had an annual mean salary of $51,470 in 2008. Medical nutritionists working in employment services earned the most at $66,230.
Occupational Outlook
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The BLS reports that employment opportunities for medical nutritionists will experience average growth through the year 2016. This expected growth might be constrained if insurance companies place limitations on reimbursement for nutritionists' services.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Tiffany Washko
