Physician Nutrition Advice and Referrals to Registered Dietitians.

PURPOSE: This study aims to examine the frequency and content of healthcare providers' nutrition recommendations and referrals Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN).

METHODS: Physicians, physician assistants, nurses, and other providers (> 18 years of age) currently practicing primarily in the United States received an email survey that assessed dietary recommendations for diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, overweight/obesity, and general wellbeing, frequency and comfort level of providing nutrition advice, and RDN referrals. Chi-square and Student's t-tests were used for analysis.

RESULTS: 154 physicians (61%), registered nurses/nurse practitioners/physician assistants (19.5%), and other providers (19.5%) were included. Those with nutrition education gave nutrition advice more than those without for some, but not all, conditions ( P = .01). The Mediterranean diet was most frequently recommended, except for hypertension. The DASH diet was recommended to 47.7% of patients with hypertension. More providers gave dietary advice than referred to RDNs. Dietary advice was associated with RDN referrals for diabetes ( P = .01) and wellbeing ( P = .05). Providers with an RDN in their practice provided advice for diabetes more than those without ( P = .01).

CONCLUSION: Healthcare providers gave nutrition recommendations consistent with evidence-based guidance. RDN referrals occur in conjunction with dietary recommendations, not as replacement.