Physicians’ Perceptions of Dietitians’ Services and Roles in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Nutrition is a fundamental part of living a healthy lifestyle and is well-recognized in the prevention and treatment of several illnesses. The physicians’ collaboration according to their perception regarding the nutrition services and dietitian roles is important for optimal healthcare management. However, gaps exist in the knowledge and understanding of how the dietitian is perceived by physicians. To the researchers’ knowledge, this is the first study to assess the physicians’ perceptions regarding the role and services of dietitians in Riyadh city. <b><i>Method:</i></b> A cross-sectional study was conducted by using an anonymous self-administered online-based survey to investigate physicians’ perceptions regarding the role and services of dietitians. In addition to demographics, the questionnaire consisted of 20 statements that covered five domains of the dietitians’ scope of practice (Medical Nutrition Therapy, Legislation and Policy, Research and Interventions, Community Programs, and Sports Nutrition). A total of 407 participants were recruited between February and March 2021. Male and female medical physicians with different professional degrees who worked in Riyadh city were eligible to be included in the study. A cross-tabulation test was used to determine the difference among physicians regarding their perceptions of dietitians’ services and roles. <b><i>Results:</i></b> For all of the 20 statements that demonstrated dietitians’ services and roles, the mean score was classified as “strongly agree” with a mean of 4.33 (SD ± 0.541). There was a statistically significant relationship between physicians’ perceptions according to their nutritional background and two statements regarding dietitians’ clinical roles. In addition, there was also a statistically significant relationship between physicians’ perceptions who are not working in academia and three statements regarding dietitians’ clinical and nonclinical roles. <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> This study’s findings support the importance of dietitians’ services in the healthcare setting as a multidisciplinary approach and recommend expanding dietitians’ employment opportunities outside the healthcare setting. Additionally, this study emphasizes incorporating nutrition education for physicians and demonstrates physicians’ understanding of nutrition as a discipline.