Defining the Practice of Dietitians in Malaysia Using the Nutrition Care Process in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

(1) Background: The quality of dietetic care is crucial to improve patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to measure the current practices regarding the provision of nutrition care in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) among dietitians in Malaysia. (2) Methods: A 49-item online survey was distributed via Malaysian Dietitians’ Association and Ministry of Health Malaysia social media platforms. Self-reported dietetic practices in the management of T2DM were evaluated against practice guidelines. (3) Results: A total of 173 dietitians completed the survey, with a response rate of 62%. Three-quarters of dietitians in the public sector consulted patients within two to three weeks or more than four weeks versus less than two weeks (86.3%) among private dietitians (p-value p-value < 0.001). Group counseling was only practiced among public dietitians (36.0%). Different practice settings led to the current findings. A limited use of behavioral counseling theories and strategies was observed among dietitians from both sectors. Limited adherence to nutrition-related recommendations (62.8%) and lack of readiness for diet/lifestyle changes (45.5%) were the key challenges faced by dietitians when managing T2DM. (4) Conclusions: The survey indicates that there is a need for the development of comprehensive training to increase the utilization of behavioral counselling. Practice setting is an element to consider when designing training.

Keywords

• Medical Nutrition Therapy
• Nutrition Care Process
• dietetic practice
• type 2 diabetes mellitus
• dietitian