The need for and challenges of nutrition and dietetics registry studies: An update on the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Health Informatics Infrastructure (ANDHII).

Abstract

Data linking medical nutrition therapy (MNT) with outcomes is needed to demonstrate the value of nutrition and dietetics professionals. Registry studies are at the intersection of practice and research and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Health Informatics Infrastructure (ANDHII) is the optimal resource to conduct registry studies for data aggregation on practice patterns and related outcomes. The Academy plays a leadership role in developing and maintaining a methodological framework for nutrition registry studies as a means to demonstrate MNT outcomes, improve the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) and Terminology (NCPT), and advance the visibility and impact of the dietetics profession. Thus, there is a high priority to disseminate nutrition care registry study findings. The purpose of this report is to provide a current update on ANDHII with an emphasis on identified strengths, weaknesses and challenges and describe a conceptual framework from which both RDNs in practice and/or research and education can become involved in nutrition registry studies.