Tennessee Licensure Law
In 1987 Tennessee passed a licensure law which regulates and defines the scope of practice in nutrition. An individual must be licensed as a dietitian within the state to practice dietetics.Dietetics practice is defined as the integration and application of the principles derived from the sciences of nutrition, biochemistry, food, physiology, management, and behavioral and social sciences to achieve and maintain peoples' health through the life cycle and in the treatment of disease.
Nothing in the Act shall be construed to constrict or limit:
1. The Medical Practice Act, Osteopathy Act, Nursing Practice Act or other licensed health professionals who are currently authorized to practice nutrition in their scope of practice from engaging in the practice of dietetics/nutrition in accordance with their scope of practice of their professions.
2. Students enrolled in an approved academic program in dietetics when such practice constitutes a part of a supervised course of study and such student is designated by a title clearly indicating his student or trainee status.
3. Dietitians serving in the armed forces, U.S. Public Health service or employees of the Veterans Administration if such practice is related to such service or employment.
4. Nutrition educators employed by a federal, state, county, or municipal agency or an elementary or secondary school or accredited degree granting educational institution.
5. Federal, State, county or local employees involved with nutrition-related programs within the discharge of thei official duties.
6. Persons employed in a hospital or nursing home and subject to licensure by the Tennessee Board for Licensing Health Care Facilities.
7. PERSONS NOT HOLDING THEMSELVES OUT TO BE LICENSED AND/OR REGISTERED DIETITIANS / NUTRITINISTS OF THE right to provide services and information related to non-medical nutrition if: employed by or operating a health weight loss or fitness program; employed by or operating a health food store; employed by or operating a business that sells health products including dietary supplements, food or food materials or provides non-medical nutritional information or distributes nutritional literature; conducting classes or disseminating information related to non-medical nutrition.
While this state allows non-licensed professionals to provide weight management and nutrition services, it is not recommended - for professional and legal reasons. Nutrition and weight management is beyond the scope of practice for allied health professionals and can result in possible harm to clients. Another serious concern is the possibility of litigation.
FOR THESE REASONS, 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.
Home Contact Us Continuing Education Courses Certification Find a Lifestyle Coach Member Center Nutrition Manager Online Store
