Dietitians of Canada

Dietitians in the health care system

Background

Canadians are interested in nutrition to prevent and manage disease. In a 2008 Canadian survey, 93% of consumers said that nutrition is an important factor that influences their food choices. Further, 82% said that dietitians are the most credible source of nutrition information (Canadian Council of food and Nutrition, 2008). Despite these findings, only 17% of Canadians with a chronic health condition have another health care professional, such as a dietitian, involved in their health care plan (Health Council of Canada, 2008).

Dietitians across Canada are working to help more Canadians access dietitians and reliable nutrition information. Helping Canadians become and stay well is what dietitians do every day.

Dietitians

• Work in all areas of the health system to help Canadians reach their optimal health
• Advocate for dietitian training programs to meet the demand today and tomorrow.
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• Are members of Coalitions that advocate to protect and strengthen Canada's health system such as the Health Action Lobby (HEAL), a coalition of health and consumer organizations.
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• Are engaged in research activities to help improve practice.
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