The Nutrition Inkwell

By: Kristina Hooper, D.I.

     Many of us working in the field of dietetics have complained ourselves, or have heard our peers complain about the lack of monetary compensation we receive.  It’s no secret that dietetics professionals aren’t as high up on the money ladder as they feel they should be.  Upon embarking into the field of dietetics, it’s not uncommon to hear, “don’t choose this career for the money!”.  But on the up side of things, our pay scale is in fact seeing new heights; thanks to those dietetics professionals that have taken part in lobbying for an increase in pay for dietetics professionals.  While lobbying for salary increase is an important reason to get involved in public policy, there are so many other great reasons for dietetics professionals to get involved as well.

     One of the most important goals of ADA members involved in public policy, is seeking licensure and supporting scope of practice legislation to define who is qualified to provide medical nutrition therapy.  If all dietetics professionals were to get involved and lobby to their senators for this support, we could maintain our recognized status.  The role of dietitians in health care is crucial.  Dietetics professionals know that medical nutrition therapy is valid and essential.  Seeking licensure and supporting scope of practice legislation to define who is qualified to provide medical nutrition therapy will instill for us a profession which is well respected among other healthcare professionals.

     Getting involved in Public Policy can change lives.  An example of this is bill AB30.  This bill allows for insurance coverage of special formulas for children with inborn errors of metabolism.  Without these special formulas, the fate of these children is mental retardation and possibly death.  Normally, these foods can cost about $200 daily. The advantages of insurance companies providing coverage for these medical foods is that it keeps children out of the hospital.  The cost from tax money for these medical foods is about one cent daily per person.  The cost for hospital stay from tax dollars is much higher than this.  Seeing the importance of a bill such as AB30 is easy.  To go out and lobby for it can also be easy, and it can make a big difference in someone’s life!

     One of the biggest hurdles to getting involved in Public Policy is the thought that it’s difficult and time consuming.  What some people may not realize, is that there are local legislators in each county.  The first thing is to educate yourself on the lobbying process, and then find a cause you believe in.  You can visit with your local legislator by calling and setting up an appointment.  It’s important for all dietetics professionals to be savvy about lobbying.  We have a lot of work to do in order for the public to realize just how important our jobs are.

     Being involved in Public Policy is a privilege to all Americans.  Our forefathers fought for our freedom and independence.  They died so we could have the right to vote for what we believe in.  As dietetics professionals, it is our job to lobby for nutrition related causes.  If we don’t do it, who else will?