Clinical Dietitian (MGM) in Kalamazoo, Michigan at Beacon Health System

Reports to the Practice Manager. Under general supervision, renders professional nutritional care to patients according to established policies, procedures, standards of care and priority screening. Reviews medical records in order to assess nutritional needs and develops nutritional programs in conjunction with the healthcare team. Provides education for patients, families, employees, resident physicians and nursing staff. Evaluates indicators for the aspects of care in the quality improvement process as requested.

MISSION, VALUES and SERVICE GOALS

• MISSION: We deliver outstanding care, inspire health, and connect with heart.
• VALUES: Trust. Respect. Integrity. Compassion.
• SERVICE GOALS: Personally connect. Keep everyone informed. Be on their team.

Screens and assesses nutritional needs of patients and develops nutritional care plans in support of physician's diet order, in accordance with the standards of care by:

• Interviewing patients, reviewing medical records and consulting with nursing personnel and the medical staff in order to obtain necessary patient information, such as diet preferences, prescriptions, nursing care plan, etc.
• Evaluating the appropriateness of physician's diet order relative to diagnosis.
• Researching diet manuals and other resources for input.
• Documenting nutritional care plans.

Renders professional nutritional care to patients according to established policies, procedures, standards of care and priority screening by:

• Working with patients to review their progress and discussing their nutritional care plan.
• Conducting patient education, one-on-one or in a class setting; preparing the patient and their family for continued care at home.
• Monitoring for drug and nutrient interactions.

Provides nutritional education by:

• Teaching staff members, physicians and the community by conducting training and providing group and individual instruction on new dietary regulations and standards through in-services.
• Performs other functions to maintain personal competence and contribute to the overall effectiveness of the department by:
• Completing other job-related assignments and special projects as directed.

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Associate complies with the following organizational requirements:

• Attends and participates in department meetings and is accountable for all information shared.
• Completes mandatory education, annual competencies and department specific education within established timeframes.
• Completes annual employee health requirements within established timeframes.
• Maintains license/certification, registration in good standing throughout fiscal year.
• Direct patient care providers are required to maintain current BCLS (CPR) and other certifications as required by position/department.
• Consistently utilizes appropriate universal precautions, protective equipment, and ergonomic techniques to protect patient and self.
• Adheres to regulatory agency requirements, survey process and compliance.
• Complies with established organization and department policies.
• Available to work overtime in addition to working additional or other shifts and schedules when required.

Education and Experience

• The knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated below are normally acquired through the successful completion of a Bachelor's Degree in Dietetics or a related field, an American Dietetic Association-approved training program and attainment of ADA registry or eligibility for registration within 6 months of employment in this position.

Knowledge & Skills

• Requires knowledge of nutrition and physiology; also requires knowledge of department policies and procedures.
• Requires the analytical abilities necessary to assess a patient's condition and design a nutritional care program consistent with diagnoses, assessment and treatment plans of other healthcare disciplines.
• Demonstrates the interpersonal and communication skills (both verbal and written) necessary to effectively counsel patients and family, instruct nursing and resident physicians, and to interact with other healthcare professionals for presentations and documentation.

Working Conditions

• Works in an office and patient care environment.

Physical Demands

• Requires the physical ability and stamina to perform the essential functions of the position.