Dietician​
Practitioners: Kristen Kizer
A professional who applies the science of food and nutrition to promote health, prevent and treat disease to optimise the health of individuals, groups, communities and populations.
[Definition of Dietitian-Nutritionist, ICDA By-Law – September 2016]
What does a Dietician do?
Dietitians understand how nutrition affects your body and provide you considered nutrition and dietary advice.
Part of their service is personal support to help you improve your health and well-being.
This means Dietitians treat a range of health conditions and in particular peculiar to you body type.
A dietitian can help you manage health conditions, such as:
- Diabetes,
- Eating disorders,
- Food allergies and intolerances,
- Gastrointestinal diseases,
- Heart disease,
- Malnutrition,
- Obesity,
- Renal disease.
They can also help you manage your well-being at different stages of life, such as pregnancy, menopause and ageing.
Dietitians understand how nutrition affects the body and use this knowledge when treating you.
Using the latest scientific information, dietitians partner with you to develop a personal plan to meet your needs.
At the initial consultation
At your initial consultation, your dietitian will ask about your medical history and health goals. They'll also want to understand your food habits and lifestyle.
Your dietitian will show you how changes to your diet can improve your health.
It's a good idea to take along:
- recent blood test results
- relevant medical records
- Medicare card
- health fund details
Your dietitian might ask you to keep a food diary or fill in a questionnaire before your first visit.
Your initial consultation will usually take about 60 to 90 minutes.
Follow Up Appointments
This follow-up is important to help you achieve your health goals.
Your dietitian will want to see you again. They might ask you to come for regular visits to check your progress and adjust your plan.
Follow-up appointments usually take about 30 to 45 minutes.
Telehealth
We provide telehealth appointments with our Dietician. Go to our bookings page for a Dietician here or phone reception.
Accredited Practicing Dieticians
Most qualified dietitians are eligible to join the APD Program.
Medicare, the Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) and many private health insurers recognise the APD credential.
If you have a chronic health condition and a care plan from your GP, you may be able to claim a Medicare rebate when you see an APD.
