The British Dietetic Association (BDA) is aware of recent articles published in The Telegraph and Guardian reporting on the British Medical Association’s (BMA) survey regarding doctor substitution. Following this, the BDA feels it is important to provide clarity on the role of dietitians within the NHS workforce.
Dietitians, including those working as Advanced Practitioners, are highly trained, autonomous professionals who are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). They work as integral members of multi-professional teams bringing specialist nutrition expertise that enhances clinical decision‑making, supports patient safety, and improves outcomes.
Dietitians are not interchangeable with, nor substitutes for, any other profession; their scope of practice is distinct and cannot be replaced by doctors or other healthcare professionals. Each profession holds different capabilities, regulatory responsibilities, and areas of expertise that they use to ensure the patient receives the best care at the right time.
Susan Price, Chair of the BDA said, ‘Dietitian Advanced Practitioners operate within a clearly defined scope of practice working alongside other members of the multi-professional team, strengthening the overall effectiveness and safety of care provided."
Dietitians work at an advanced level of practice across all sectors, not just the NHS. Further information is available on the BDA website here.
