Developing a dietetic advanced practice role within a neuro-rehabilitation service.

Abstract

Background: Although advanced practice has been well established in nursing, there is now a drive to develop such roles within other health professions, including dietetics. In 2016, dietitians were granted non-medical supplementary prescribing rights, which can support dietitians working in advanced practice roles. Effective teamwork is vital in neuro-rehabilitation as rehabilitation services work to improve their service delivery model to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of patient care.

Aims: To establish a dietetic advanced practice role in one neuro-rehabilitation service.

Methods: Review of the literature relating to advanced practice and dietetic advanced practice. Using gap analysis to establish the need for a dietetic advanced practice role within a neuro-rehabilitation setting, as part of a Master's degree-level qualification in advanced practice. To establish evidence of the impact of a dietetic advanced practice role via a patient case study.

Findings: There are benefits to service delivery in rolling out advanced practice within the interdisciplinary team, with the potential for increased capacity, capability, productivity and efficiency. As a result of a dietitian working in an advanced practice role in a neuro-rehabilitation service, there was improved access and continuity of care, leading to positive patient outcomes and clinician satisfaction.

Conclusion: Patient care and service delivery can be enhanced by dietitians working in advanced practice roles and as non-medical prescribers for patients with long-term conditions. Further work is required to establish the benefit of dietetic advanced practice and non-medical prescribing in different patient groups and healthcare systems.