What is a dietitian?

Dietitians are experts in food and nutrition. They help you understand how what you eat can affect your health.

If you are living with certain chronic conditions such as diabetes, cancer, obesity or food allergies, dietitians can help you adjust your diet to improve your health and wellbeing.

What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?

In Australia, dietitians are different to nutritionists. All dietitians are nutritionists. However, nutritionists cannot be called dietitians, unless they have a dietetics qualification.

Both dietitians and nutritionists are qualified to work in areas such as public health, research and teaching, or in the food industry. However, dietitians are also qualified to work in private medical practices, medical centres or hospitals.

In Australia, the dietetic profession is regulated by the National Alliance of Self Regulating Health Professions (NASRHP). You must have completed an accredited university degree in nutrition and dietetics to become a qualified dietitian and join the Accredited Practicing Dietitian (APD) program.

The APD program is run by Dietitians Australia. This program is the only qualification for dietitians recognised by the Australian Government (for Medicare and the Department of Veterans' Affairs' purposes), many state governments and private health insurers.

Dietitians can only maintain their APD status if they participate in ongoing training and education throughout their careers. They also must follow the Dietitians Australia code of conduct.

The profession of nutritionist is not regulated in Australia. This means that anyone can call themselves a nutritionist without having any specific training.

It is important you check the credentials of your healthcare professional before you make an appointment.

When do I see a dietitian?

You may see a dietitian to help you manage your diet if you are living with some chronic health conditions such as:

• high cholesterol or diabetes
• cancer
• kidney disease, gastrointestinal disease or heart disease
• malnutrition
• eating disorders
• overweight and obesity
• food allergies or intolerances

Dietitians can help you maximise your health and wellbeing at any age or stage of life, including:

• infancy and childhood
• pregnancy
• menopause
• ageing

What should I expect during an appointment with a dietitian?

This first appointment with your dietitian usually takes 60 to 90 minutes.

During your first appointment, your dietitian will spend time getting to know you and will ask you questions about your:

• medical history
• food habits and lifestyle
• what you want to achieve

Your dietitian may have ask you to keep a food diary or fill out a questionnaire before or after your appointment.

Your dietitian will spend some time explaining to you how your diet may be influencing your health. They can give you personalised nutrition and diet advice. This can even include tips on food shopping. Your dietitian may recommend certain changes to your lifestyle and give you an eating plan.

Your dietitian may recommend follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. This is important in helping you achieve your health goals and maximise your wellbeing.

During your follow-up appointments, your dietitian may adjust your plan based on your progress. You should feel comfortable to ask questions, express any concerns or difficulties you are having.

What does it cost to see a dietitian?

The costs for seeing a dietitian vary — you should check before you make an appointment. Medicare may cover some visist, but only if your doctor has referred you and you have a Chronic Disease Management Plan.

If you have private health insurance, your insurer might cover some of the cost. It is a good idea to check with your private health insurer before your appointment.

What questions should I ask a dietitian?

Here are some general questions you could ask your dietitian:

• What are your qualifications? Are you an Accredited Practising Dietitian?
• What do you charge for a consultation? Do you have concession rates? Do you offer any Medicare, DVA or other rebates?
• Do you offer telehealth services?

You may also want to ask your dietitian specific questions about how they can help you:

• Do you have experience with my health condition?
• Can you help me identify and manage any food allergies or intolerances?
• Are there any foods I should not eat?
• Can you help me with a meal plan that fits my budget, culture and lifestyle?
• What foods am I missing from my diet?

How do I find a dietitian?

Your doctor can refer you to a dietitian or you can ask your family and friends for a recommendation.

The Dietitians Australia website allows you to search for an Accredited Practising Dietitian. It can also tell you if a dietitian has been suspended or is facing disciplinary procedures.

Some dietitians offer telehealth services.

Do I need a referral to see a dietitian?

You do not need a referral to see a dietitian. You can choose to see any dietitian you wish.

However, if you would like to access some government benefits such as Medicare, NDIS (the National Disability Insurance Scheme) or the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) you might need a referral from a GP.

You may find it helpful to see your GP before your appointment. They may refer you for blood tests that can help your dietitian give you the best advice.

Resources and support

• Discover how a dietitian can help you at Dietitians Australia.
• Visit the Dietitians Australia website to read short articles about diet and health.
• Eat for Health have tips for eating well that can help you make healthy food choices.

Do you prefer to read in languages other than English?

The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating shows you the recommended portions of each food group to eat every day is translated into many foreign languages.

Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people?

View the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Guide to Healthy Eating.