CLINICAL DIETITIAN
WHAT IS IT?
Dietetics is the scientific study of food and its clinical impact on health and disease. Dietetic principles are based on research, science and evidence based practice to improve health outcomes and reduce the risk of disease development and progression.
Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) are recognised professionals with the qualifications and skills to provide expert nutrition and dietary advice. They have clinical training to modify diets to treat conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, cancers, gastro-intestinal diseases, food allergies and intolerances and overweight and obesity. APDs have sound university qualifications accredited by DAA, undertake ongoing training and education and comply with the Associations guidelines for best practice.
APD is the only national credential recognised by the Medicare, the Department of Veterans Affairs and most private health funds as the quality standard for nutrition and dietetics services in Australia.
Medicare initiatives provide rebates for visits to APDs treating chronic health conditions under a care plan coordinated by a general practitioner.
TREATMENT
The initial consultation will take 60 minutes. I will collect data such as anthropometry, diet history, medical history, lifestyle history, medical test results and condition details, energy requirements, plus client goals and needs. From this data an individual care plan, diet advice and meal planning will be designed specific to the client. Time will also be dedicated to setting goals and developing strategies to achieve them. Further follow-up will be arranged depending on individual needs of the client.
It is important that I get accurate data so wear comfortable clothes that can be lifted or removed to expose arms, legs and torso, for example singlets and shorts.
A follow up review will take 30 minutes and will focus on goal achievements, test results, and changes to disease/condition status.
Communication between me and your GP or other health professionals involved with your care may be required, however, confidentiality will be maintained and you will always be informed.
FAQ’s
- Can I claim a rebate?
- Accredited Practising Dietitians are recognised by Medicare, Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) and private health funds, making rebates possible. A Medicare rebate will require a GP Care Plan, and a DVA rebate requires a DVA card. Private health fund rebates are dependent on your fund and HICAPS is available at the Vital Health Care Centre
- What is a GP Care Plan?
- A GP Care Plan is a document that you and your GP have developed together to manage your condition. The document includes a prescribed number of visits to Allied Health professionals who may be involved with your care. Call Medicare or ask you GP for more details.
- Can I bring a family member or friend?
- It is preferred that you attend the session by yourself and the person most involved with your health. This can include the primary shopper and cook. However, assessments and diet advice are designed on individual requirements. Family consultations will be considered if the family is working together to make a collective change.
- Will this diet advice help my friends and family?
- Assessments, meal planning and diet advice is developed on an individual basis. There are no single diets that will meet everybody's needs and it is therefore not always appropriate to give your diet plan to your friends or family.
WHO DO I SEE?
Julia Phillips is the Clinical Dietitian at the Vital Health Care Centre.