Practice analysis and changes to the Chiropractic Board of Clinical Nutrition diplomate exam.

Objective: The main objective of this study was to report results of the practice analysis survey and to provide insights into the average levels of performance and the importance of professional tasks executed by chiropractic nutritionists. In addition, this study informs the chiropractic community of the changes made to the Chiropractic Board of Clinical Nutrition diplomate exam.

Methods: Seventy-eight practicing chiropractic nutritionists responded to the practice analysis survey. Their responses were analyzed, and conclusions about frequency and importance of performance tasks were reached. A panel of subject matter experts provided a qualitative review of the survey responses. The quantitative and qualitative analyses of the survey responses indicated that minor changes to the test plan were needed.

Results: Descriptive statistical techniques were employed to analyze the survey responses. The qualitative panel suggested reducing the number of domains on the nutrition exam from 7 to 6 by combining Laboratory and Nutrition-Specific Testing and Imaging and Other Special Studies domains. Additionally, the panel decided on the final distribution of weights combining the quantitative results with qualitative perspectives.

Conclusion: The practice analysis is a first step in the definition of the skills required for practicing chiropractic nutritionists. The analysis becomes one of the references and a decision-making tool used by the board for developing and administrating quality assessments.