THE ROLE OF CLINICAL DIETITIANS AS PERCEIVED BY DIETITIANS AND PHYSICIANS

Objective The purpose of this study was to examine dietitians' and phy sicians' perceptions regarding the role of clinical dietitians. Subjec ts and design Four hundred ten physicians and clinical dietitians were randomly identified from the American Board of Medical Specialties Di rectory of Board Certified Medical Specialists and from Michigan distr ict dietetic association directories. A survey containing demographic, situational, and role and responsibility questions was administered. Statistical analyses performed Cronbach's alpha coefficient was comput ed to determine the internal consistency of the measurement instrument . A series of two-tailed t tests was performed to determine between-gr oup differences on the perception questions. Analysis of covariance wa s completed to control for potential confounds. chi(2) Tests were perf ormed to determine the relationship among a change of diet order quest ion and participants' occupation, area of specialty, and practice sett ing. Results Of the surveys mailed, 73% were returned and 58% overall were usable. The internal consistency of the measure was .72. Most die titians' and physicians' responses to the role and responsibility ques tions differed significantly, with particularly large differences note d for 6 of 10 questions; however, ''total score'' differences were not significant. Significant associations were found for the level of spe cialization and type of occupation on the change of diet order questio n. Application/conclusions Routine contact, communication, and interac tion between physicians and dietitians are vital if physicians are to know dietitians' responsibilities and competencies and collaborate wit h them when providing medical nutrition therapy to patients. Future st udies that differentiate areas of responsibility of clinical dietitian s and inquire into dietitians' and physicians' interactions during the ir education or training may provide further insights into this topic.