The Centre works with dietitians from different areas of practice, regional groups and a number of BDA Specialist Groups to identify what genetics education is relevant to practicing dietitians.
On 24th February 2009, the Centre held a meeting of dietitians and educators to identify what genetics education resources might be relevant to dietetic practice, particularly in the areas of common, complex diseases that are familiar to most dietitians. As a result, a number of resources have been or are being developed.
Many specialist dietitians work with specific genetic conditions, such as cystic fibrosis or familial hypercholesterolaemia. In addition, many paediatric dietitians work with inherited metabolic disorders, such as phenylketonuria (PKU) or MCADD (medium-chain acyl-coA dehydrogenase deficiency). The Centre has worked with specialist dietitians in these areas to develop Clinical Case Scenarios that can be used a teaching and learning tools about a number of conditions.
The Telling Stories website contains stories of patients and health professionals relating to genetics and family history. For example, "Graham's Story: Like father, like son?" is the story of a patient who, following a heart attack, discusses the history of heart conditions in his family with a health professional. He talks about the implications with his children, and as a result he and his family take positive steps to improve their diet and lifestyle. Read about why these stories may be of interest to dietitians.
Dietitians were involved in development of the UK Competences for Genetics in Clinical Practice for Non-Genetics Healthcare Staff. This document describes a range of genetics activities in practice that may be relevant to the roles of all health professionals, and are recognised as National Occupational Standards by Skills for Health.
Last updated: 20 October 2011
