Why work with a Registered Dietitian certified by HCPC?
​The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) is a regulatory body who protect the public by ensuring that professionals in their register maintain appropriate standards in training and in clinical practice. These standards are outlined below, however more details can be found here.
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1. To practise safely and effectively within their scope of practice.
2. To practise within the legal and ethical boundaries of their profession.
3. To look after their own health and wellbeing, seeking appropriate support where necessary.
4. To practise as an autonomous professional, exercising their own professional judgement.
5. To recognise the impact of culture, equality and diversity on practice and practise in a non-discriminatory and inclusive manner.
6. To understand the importance of and maintain confidentiality.
7. To communicate effectively.
8. To work appropriately with others.
9. To maintain records appropriately.
10. To reflect on and review practice.
11. To assure the quality of their practice
12. To understand and apply the key concepts of the knowledge base relevant to their profession.
13. To draw on appropriate knowledge and skills to inform practice.
14. To establish and maintain a safe practice environment.
15. To promote health and prevent ill health.
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In order to practice as a dietitian in the UK, it is mandatory to be registered with the HCPC. Therefore, if professional standards are not met, the professional can no longer call themselves a Dietitian.
Working with an HCPC-registered Dietitian therefore ensures a certain quality of care is upheld. Discover the benefits of working with an HCPC registered dietitian today.
FAQs
What is the difference between a Nutritionist and a Dietitian?
In the UK, the terms "nutritionist" and "dietitian" are often used interchangeably, but there are differences in their qualifications, training, and professional roles.
Nutritionist: In the UK, the title "nutritionist" is not protected by law, meaning that anyone can call themselves a nutritionist regardless of their qualifications. Some nutritionists may have degrees or certifications in nutrition-related fields, but others may not have formal qualifications.Nutritionists typically focus on general aspects of nutrition and healthy eating.
Dietitian: A Dietitian is a registered health professional regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the UK.To become a dietitian, one must complete a degree in dietetics or a related field accredited by the British Dietetic Association (BDA). Dietitians undergo rigorous training that includes clinical nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, and counselling. They work across various sectors including healthcare, food service management, research, and public health. Dietitians often work with individuals with specific health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, eating disorders, and cardiovascular diseases, providing tailored dietary advice and support.
In summary, while both nutritionists and dietitians work in the field of nutrition, dietitians have specific qualifications, are regulated by a professional body, and often work in clinical or healthcare settings, while the term "nutritionist" can be used by individuals with varying levels of qualifications and expertise.
Can you be a Dietitian NOT registered with the HCPC?
No - in the UK it is mandatory for a dietitian to be registered with the HCPC, and therefore adhering to their standards of proficiency in training and in practice. If someone is calling themselves a Dietitian and are not registered with the HCPC then they are practicing illegally.