Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Revised 2018 Standards of Practice and Standards of Professional Performance for Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (Competent, Proficient, and Expert) in Mental Health and Addictions

Abstract

In 2016, there were 44.7 million adults affected by mental illness, and 20.1 million people aged 12 years or older affected by substance use disorder. More than 8.2 million Americans are afflicted with co-occurring disorders or dual diagnosis, such as both a mental illness and an addiction. Registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) have an important role in the treatment of this population, as optimizing nutrition status improves cognitive and emotional functioning. The Behavioral Health Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group, with guidance from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Quality Management Committee, has developed Standards of Practice (SOP) and Standards of Professional Performance (SOPP) for RDNs in Mental Health and Addictions for three levels of practice: competent, proficient, and expert. The SOP uses the Nutrition Care Process and clinical workflow elements for care of individuals with mental illness and/or addictions. The SOPP describes six domains that focus on professionalism: Quality in Practice, Competence and Accountability, Provision of Services, Application of Research, Communication and Application of Knowledge, and Utilization and Management of Resources. Indicators outlined in the SOP and SOPP depict how these standards apply to practice. The SOP and SOPP are complementary resources for RDNs caring for individuals with, or specializing in, mental health and addictions and practicing in other mental health and addictions-related areas, including research. The SOP and SOPP are intended to be used by RDNs for self-evaluation to assure competent practice and for determining potential education and training needs for advancement to a higher practice level in a variety of settings.