Regulation of the dietetic profession has been delegated by the Government of Alberta to the College under the Health Professions Act (PDF Format). The public protection role of the College and how it is to be governed is set out in this legislation.
The College of Dietitians of Alberta regulates the practice of over 1000 Registered Dietitians/Registered Nutritionists in Alberta by setting entry requirements and standards of practice for the profession and ensuring that members meet those standards. The College is dedicated to the public receiving ethical, competent care from highly qualified nutrition professionals.
The protected titles that each regulated health profession is given in legislation indicate to consumers that the health care provider who uses them is regulated by, and accountable to a College to practice in accordance with the codes and standards established by the College.
The College is accountable to both the government and the public to ensure its members practice safely. Consumers have recourse to the College if they encounter incompetent or unethical practice from a regulated member of the College.
To ensure public transparency and accountability, twenty-five percent of the Council, a Hearing Tribunal, and a Complaint Review Committee are public members appointed by Government.
This accountability of the College and its regulated members differentiate regulated and non-regulated sources of health information.
The Mission and Vision of the College of Dietitians of Alberta reflect the organization’s commitment to that purpose.
If you have a concern
The role of the College is to ensure that the public is protected from unprofessional conduct or incompetent practice. Concerns about the practice of Registered Dietitians and Registered Nutritionists are addressed through the College's complaint process. This process is set out in the Health Professions Act that governs the profession and ensures that an appropriate course of action is taken in response to the concern. When an individual files a formal complaint with the College they are notified of the action taken with respect to the complaint.
If you have a concern about the professional services that you have received from a Registered Dietitian or Registered Nutritionist please contact the College for more information.