Code of Massachusetts Regulations 268 CMR - BOARD OF REGISTRATION OF DIETITIANS/NUTRITIONISTS
268 CMR — Board of Registration of Dietitians/Nutritionists
1. Purpose
The 268 CMR regulations are designed to:
Regulate the practice of dietetics and nutrition in Massachusetts.
Protect public health and safety by ensuring that only qualified professionals provide nutrition and dietetic services.
Establish standards for licensure, professional conduct, and continuing education for dietitians and nutritionists.
2. Scope
268 CMR applies to:
Dietitians — individuals who meet the educational and supervised practice requirements to provide medical nutrition therapy and counseling.
Nutritionists — individuals trained in nutrition science who provide general nutrition guidance (distinct from clinical dietitians in scope of practice).
Any person practicing dietetics or nutrition professionally in Massachusetts without a valid license.
Key points:
Professionals must hold a valid license issued by the Board to legally practice.
Unlicensed practice is considered a violation of state regulations.
3. Key Provisions of 268 CMR
A. Licensure Requirements
To obtain a license:
Education:
Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field from an accredited institution.
Completion of approved coursework covering food, nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, and counseling.
Supervised Practice:
Completion of a dietetic internship or supervised practice program recognized by the Board.
Examination:
Passing a national dietitian registration exam or a state-approved licensing exam.
Application & Fees:
Submission of official transcripts, verification of supervised practice, and payment of licensing fees.
B. Professional Conduct
268 CMR outlines standards of practice and ethical requirements, including:
Providing services within the scope of competence.
Maintaining confidentiality of client information.
Avoiding misrepresentation of qualifications or credentials.
Following evidence-based nutrition guidelines.
Violations can result in disciplinary action, including license suspension or revocation.
C. Continuing Education
Licensees must complete continuing education units (CEUs) at intervals specified by the Board (usually every two years).
CEUs ensure that dietitians and nutritionists stay current with scientific advances, medical nutrition therapy, and ethical practices.
D. Disciplinary Actions
The Board has authority to:
Investigate complaints against licensees.
Impose penalties, including:
Reprimand
Probation
Suspension or revocation of license
Fines
Grounds for disciplinary action include:
Unprofessional conduct
Fraudulent or false representation
Practicing beyond scope of license
Criminal convictions related to professional duties
E. Scope of Practice Distinctions
Dietitian: Authorized to provide medical nutrition therapy, develop treatment plans, and work in clinical settings.
Nutritionist: Provides general nutrition advice and wellness counseling; may not engage in medical nutrition therapy unless also licensed as a dietitian.
4. Practical Implications
Hospitals, clinics, and private practices must ensure all dietitians and nutritionists hold valid Massachusetts licenses.
Individuals seeking dietetic or nutrition services can verify a license through the Board to ensure compliance.
Professionals moving to Massachusetts must apply for licensure, meet education and practice requirements, and pass the exam to practice legally.
5. Summary Table
| Aspect | 268 CMR — Board of Registration of Dietitians/Nutritionists |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Protect public health and regulate dietitians/nutritionists |
| Who is covered | Dietitians, nutritionists, and anyone practicing nutrition services in MA |
| Licensing requirements | Bachelor’s degree, supervised practice, licensing exam, fees |
| Professional conduct | Competence, confidentiality, evidence-based practice, truthful representation |
| Continuing education | Mandatory CEUs every 2 years (as determined by the Board) |
| Disciplinary powers | Investigate complaints, suspend/revoke license, impose fines |
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