International perspectives: the profession of dietetics

State of dietetics practice in Ghana

“…This is critical as overweight and obesity prevalence rises sharply in tandem with the risk of non-communicable diseases. 9,12,18 Another important issue that demands attention is the increasing abuse of the dietetics profession by charlatans posing as dietitians and diet counselors. The Ghana Health Service, in partnership with the Ghana Dietetic Association as well as the newly created Allied Health Task Force needs to design and enforce regulatory mechanisms for ensuring appropriate professional conduct and practice.…”

Dietitians as leaders, past, present and future

“…The lack of clear definitions and the broad nature of dietetics is reflected in the difficulty to clearly articulate the work of dietitians and to be able to identify the profound effect of dietitians on policy and practice in food and nutrition work. By 2001, key tools such as codes of ethics were still not universal 8 . The ICDA in 2004 commenced a process to develop an international code of ethics which was accepted in 2008 9…”

“…This has brought many barriers with it but especially that relating to dietetics as a job versus a career. Repeatedly, throughout time, there has been an acknowledgement that there should be more dietitians 3,7,8,11,16,19,22 . Over the years, there have been many attempts to scan the environment and prepare for the future.…”

“…By 2001, key tools such as codes of ethics were still not universal. 8 The ICDA in 2004 commenced a process to develop an international code of ethics which was accepted in 2008. 9…”

“…Repeatedly, throughout time, there has been an acknowledgement that there should be more dietitians. 3,7,8,11,16,19,22 Over the years, there have been many attempts to scan the environment and prepare for the future. It is up to dietetics leaders to position the profession as best they can.…”