Massachusetts Licensure Law
In 1999 Massachusetts passed a licensure law which regulates and defines the scope of practice in Dietetics. Field of dietetics and nutrition is defined as the integration and application of scientific principles of food, nutrition, biochemistry, physiology, food management, behavioral and social sciences to achieve and maintain the health of people.Exemptions:
Section 206. No person shall hold himself out to be a licensed dietitian/nutritionist unless so licensed under the applicable provisions of this chapter. This section shall not restrict any person who does not hold himself out to be a licensed dietitian/nutritionist from the following:
(a) pursuing a degree in dietetics or nutrition at an accredited college or university and engaging in the practice of dietetics or nutrition under the supervision of a licensed dietitian/nutritionist and in accordance with professional standards of practice, provided that the person is designated by a title clearly indicating his status as a student;
(b) fulfilling the professional experience requirement in dietetic or nutrition necessary for licensure who is engaging in the practice of dietetics or nutrition under the supervision of a licensed dietitian/nutritionist and in accordance with professional standards of practice, provided that the person is designated by a title clearly indicating his status as a trainee;
(c) furnishing information regarding food, food material, or dietary supplements;
(d) furnishing information about food, food products, or dietary supplements to customers in connection with the marketing and distribution of such items;
(e) practicing a health profession that he is otherwise authorized to practice under chapter 112 of the General Laws; or
(f) practicing a health profession that includes a dietetic or nutritional practice component, including, but not limited to, holistic medicine, naturopathic medicine, homopathic medicine, macrobiotics, ayurvedic therapy, polarity therapy, shiatsu therapy, massage therapy, and herbal therapy.
SINCE THIS STATE HAS LICENSURE LAWS, ALL INDIVIDUALS PROVIDING NUTRITION SERVICES MUST CONFER WITH A LICENSED DIETITIAN.
ALL NUTRITION MANAGER CONSULTANTS SIGN AN AGREEMENT WITH LIFESTYLE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATES TO CONFER WITH AN AASDN PROFESSIONAL.
Although every attempt has been made to summarize the state licensure statutes, to provide health professionals with accurate statements regarding individual state regulations, Lifestyle Management Associates cannot guarantee that all information is current at all points in time, and cannot guarantee or be held responsible for any misinterpretations of the law. Every attempt has been made to persuade all allied health professionals to associate with registered, licensed dietitians.
For more detailed information on the licensure laws of this state and to obtain state licensure agency contact information visit www.cdrnet.org/certifications/licensure/index.htm.
