Hi, Everybody,

I read this list daily and I find it interesting.  I have been tempted
to respond in the past, but I haven't for no particular reason.

I have been following the discussion on physicians and nutrition
knowledge.  I believe the idea of seeing a Registered Dietitian has
not been mentioned.  The physicians I work with refer patients to me
when it comes to dealing with most things nutrition related.  They
realize that health care is a team effort.  The physicians I am
referring to have no ego and they will seek out the best help for
their patients when needed.  They are wonderful to work with and for
that I am grateful.

While health professionals share a common body of knowledge, we
obviously can excel only in certain areas.  None of us can be up to
speed on everything.  Even within my own profession of dietetics,
dietitians have areas of nutrition where our knowledge base is
stronger than in other areas.  It is difficult enough keeping current
just in the areas that one practices in.

I will take a chance here and try to define two terms.  I am not
trying to come across as being defensive or egotistical.  Like many
professions, there are unqualfified and untrained people who undermine
the dietetics profession.  A nutritionist is a generic term and it is
frequently misunderstood.  There are some states that license
nutritionists and set the criteria to carry that credential.  However,
a nutritionist can be anyone.  For example, if someone reads a book on
vitamins, he/she can claim to be a nutritionist or a nutrition
consultant.  A dietitian, on the other hand, is a person with specific
training and experience in food and nutrition.  Dietitians must pass a
national registry exam.  Once passed, a person can then carry the
title of Registered Dietitian.  Many states now require dietitians to
be licensed in order to practice their profession.

As a dietitian, I try to keep an open mind.  A previous response to
this list said something to the effect that science is always changing
and so should our knowledge. I agree.  My thirst for learning more
about nutrition is incredible.  I have learned much from this list
because my experience and understanding in this area needs to be
improved upon.

One final comment:  When an ego gets in the way of any health
professional, it is time to seriously think about finding someone
different.

Kevin Kelly, Licensed Registered Dietitian