Why Regulation Matters
Public protection, access to quality health care and client-centred care are basic principles of the regulated health care system in Canada. In Ontario, Registered Dietitians are regulated by law. The Regulated Health Professions Act and the Dietetic Act set out the responsibilities, powers and procedures for the College of Dietitians of Ontario to regulate the profession of dietetics and ensure that dietitians meet legal and professional standards for safe, ethical and quality health care. Ensuring that the public receives competent and ethical dietetic services from Registered Dietitians and that the public has recourse for any concerns or complaints are the only reasons for regulating dietitians.
Enforceable Professional Standards
The Regulated Health Professions Act and the Dietetics Act set out the responsibilities, powers and procedures related to the regulations of dietitians. A high standard for academic and practical training must be achieved in order to practice as a Dietitian in Ontario. Other standards are established and enforced for professional scope of practice, ethics, professional conduct, and continuing competence.
Standards to become a dietitian include:
- an accredited 4-year or equivalent degree with appropriate courses in sciences and human nutrition, administration and humanities;
- an accredited dietetic internship or equivalent supervised practical training; and,
- successful completion of the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination.
While anyone can legally provide nutrition education and advice, what sets Registered Dietitians apart is that, under the Regulated Health Professions Act, they are accountable to the College of Dietitians of Ontario for safe, competent and ethical practice. Each dietitian must participate in a quality assurance and practice assessment programs to ensure continuing competency. Dietitians and employers have an obligation to report under certain circumstances, dietitians who are not practicing ethically, safely and competently.
When anyone has a concern regarding a dietitian, they can easily contact the College of Dietitians of Ontario which has the responsibility and power to investigate and take action.
Verify that your nutrition expert is a dietitian.
