South Carolina Code of Regulations Chapter 40 - DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, LICENSING AND REGULATION PANEL FOR DIETETICS
South Carolina Code of Regulations, Chapter 40 - Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation Panel for Dietetics
Overview:
Chapter 40 of the South Carolina Code of Regulations establishes the Panel for Dietetics under the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR). This panel regulates the practice of dietetics in the state, ensuring that individuals working as dietitians or nutritionists meet specific educational, licensing, and ethical standards.
The regulations set forth in this chapter govern the licensing, professional conduct, and continued education of dietetics professionals, which includes registered dietitians (RDs) and nutritionists.
Key Provisions:
Establishment of the Panel for Dietetics:
The Panel for Dietetics is a regulatory body under the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation.
The panel's primary role is to ensure that only qualified professionals are licensed to practice dietetics and that they adhere to the ethical and educational standards required by the state.
Licensing Requirements:
Individuals wishing to practice as a dietitian or nutritionist in South Carolina must meet specific qualifications, including:
Educational Requirements: A degree in dietetics, nutrition, or a related field from an accredited program.
Internship Requirements: Successful completion of an accredited dietetics internship or supervised practice program.
Examination: Passing a nationally recognized certification exam (e.g., the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam).
Application and Fees: Completing a state application form and paying the required licensing fees.
License Renewal and Continuing Education:
Dietitians and nutritionists must renew their licenses periodically (usually every two years).
To qualify for renewal, professionals must complete continuing education (CE) requirements to maintain current knowledge in the field of dietetics.
The panel defines the number of CE hours required and acceptable courses or activities for meeting this requirement.
Standards of Professional Conduct:
The regulations establish ethical guidelines for dietitians, emphasizing:
Client confidentiality and privacy.
Professional integrity in providing nutritional counseling and dietary advice.
Avoidance of conflicts of interest and ensuring that services provided are in the best interests of clients.
Dietitians and nutritionists must also adhere to laws regarding advertising and marketing their services.
Disciplinary Procedures:
The Panel for Dietetics has the authority to investigate complaints against licensed dietitians or nutritionists.
Violations of professional conduct, including fraud, misrepresentation, or negligence, may result in disciplinary actions such as:
Reprimand
Suspension or revocation of license
Fines or penalties
Probation with conditions for continued practice.
Exemptions from Licensing:
Certain professionals or activities may be exempt from licensing under this chapter, such as:
Professionals practicing within other regulated fields (e.g., doctors or nurses) who provide nutrition counseling as part of their scope of practice.
Educational institutions or programs that provide dietetics education or clinical training.
Scope of Practice:
The regulations clarify what is considered within the scope of practice for licensed dietitians and nutritionists in South Carolina. This includes providing nutritional assessments, dietary counseling, and education to individuals, groups, and organizations.
Purpose and Impact:
Public Safety and Protection: By regulating dietetics professionals, the panel ensures that individuals practicing dietetics have the necessary qualifications, training, and ethical standards to provide safe and effective nutritional guidance.
Professional Standards: The chapter helps maintain high standards of practice within the profession, ensuring that dietitians and nutritionists provide evidence-based, client-centered care.
Accountability: The disciplinary procedures ensure that any misconduct or unethical behavior is addressed, which contributes to maintaining public trust in the dietetics profession.
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