The state of Hawai‘i has licensure statute for dietitians. Licensure is a state regulatory action defining minimum competency standards for individuals working in a regulated profession. A licensed dietitian will carry the designation LD.
Why is dietitian licensure important?
- Consumer protection
- consumers need ethical, high quality, evidence-based care provided by professionals who are trained consistently and whose practice has proven outcomes
- helps the public to identify qualified practitioners
- establishes minimum competency standards for providing MNT
- all states regulate occupations and professions that have an impact on the public’s health and safety
- Access to quality healthcare
- insurance reimbursement
- enables others to have confidence in the dietetics profession (consumers, employers, insurers, other health professionals)
- language in many federal programs state services must be provided by a licensed health care professional
Hawai‘i Administrative Rules – Licensing of Dietitians
For questions regarding licensure and how to apply, please contact Susan Nakamura at (808) 692-7400.