ADD ADVICE TO FAVDietician
Dieticians work mainly in the National Health Service but also in the community and in certain industries such as food, pharmaceuticals and the media.
What dieticians do
- take case histories of patients
- assess the implications of diet on their conditions
- devise appropriate nutritional regimes to meet their needs
- work with other medical staff such as doctors and nurses
- instruct patients and clients on the management of their diets
- supervise the preparation of foods and drinks appropriate to individual needs
- keep abreast of developments in dietary research
- promote the benefits of a healthy diet
- advise catering departments about the dietary needs of patients.
Key skills for dieticians
- excellent interpersonal skills
- ability to diagnose problems
- good organisational skills
- decision-making skills.
Training to be a dietician
For graduates without a degree in dietetics, a relevant degree such as biochemistry or physiology and a two-year postgraduate qualification are required. Successful applicants might be eligible for means-tested bursaries. Fees are also paid.
Salaries for dieticians
Starting salaries are in the range of £19,166 to £24,803. The highest grade carries a salary in the range of about £36,000 to £40,000. There are also on-call allowances for dieticians employed by the National Health Service.
