Enhancing Diversity and the Role of Individuals with Disabilities in the Dietetics Profession

Exploring the relevance of intersectionality in Australian dietetics: Issues of diversity and representation

“…Calls to increase the diversity and representation in dietetics in Western nations, are well established and wide‐ranging (Baxter et al., 2020; Burt et al., 2019; Mahajan, 2021; Warren, 2017). For example, key strategic publications from the British Dietetic Association, the American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and Dietitians of Canada have all acknowledged the importance of diversity in dietetics workforce and prioritised action to diversify the workforce (Dietitians of Canada, 2020; Farr, 2020; Hickson et al., 2018).…”

“…This is perhaps unsurprising, as researchers seek to problematise and rebut the thin, white, female‐dietitian trope. Appearing less frequently in peer‐reviewed dialog are dimensions of dietetic diversity highlighting inclusive practices for dietitians with disabilities (Baxter et al., 2020), LGBTIQ+ inclusion in dietetic classrooms (Joy & Numer, 2018), and socio‐economic issues demonstrated through financial barriers to dietetics education (Wynn et al., 2017).…”

Trends, challenges, opportunities, and future needs of the dietetic workforce: a systematic scoping review

“…[72][73][74] This was reported to create a divide between the profession and the individuals they serve. 72 In addition to gender 73 and race, 74 the need for diversity with reference to age, religion, socioeconomic status 41 and disability 75 were also identified. Suggested ways to increase diversity included targeted approaches to recruit more diverse students and peer mentoring.…”

Valuing Diversity in Dietetics: Considerations for Service Dogs at School, Internships, and the Workplace

“…34 Accommodations in a clinical setting are best accomplished with advanced planning, a team approach, and the inclusion of a disability services provider with knowledge of the clinical rotation and the person's disability. 3 The US Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy has made available a generic how-to guide for creating inclusive internships. 35 Information about each person's disability should be kept confidential.…”

“…However, data are lacking on disability prevalence among dietetics students, interns, and registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs). 3 PwDs often exhibit many valuable proficiencies, including creativity, flexibility, and peak performance under pressure, 4 yet also experience unique challenges. For the field of dietetics to become a diverse, equitable, and inclusive profession, it is important for food and nutrition practitioners to understand both the unique challenges and valuable contributions of students, interns, employees, and patients with disabilities assisted by an SD (herein referred to as SD handlers).…”