Nutrition Specialist

Position Summary

Join a dynamic organization dedicated to enhancing the health and wellness of diverse communities through a collaborative approach.

Role Description:
The Nutrition Specialist collaborates with a multidisciplinary healthcare team to deliver evidence-based nutritional therapy that aligns with patient-centered medical objectives. Key responsibilities encompass the implementation of the Nutrition Care Process (NCP), which includes conducting nutrition-focused assessments, diagnosing nutritional issues, formulating interventions, and monitoring patient outcomes. The Nutrition Specialist employs specialized dietetic practices and adheres to established nutrition guidelines to inform intervention strategies. Additionally, this role involves managing resources efficiently and participating in quality improvement initiatives to ensure safe and effective nutritional care. The Nutrition Specialist plays a vital role in team discussions, provides educational sessions related to nutrition, and contributes to the formulation and updating of institutional policies. Opportunities may also arise to engage in community nutrition initiatives while maintaining the necessary professional competencies.

This position encompasses responsibilities across multiple clinics.

UNC Health Care is a participant in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

Key Responsibilities:
1. Evaluates nutritional requirements utilizing standardized practices and analytical reasoning. Determines nutrient needs based on individual patient profiles, including age and health conditions.
2. Serves as a resource for the assigned specialty team and facilitates communication between various medical specialties and support services.
3. Aids in meeting compliance standards set by accrediting bodies to enhance the safety and quality of care provided.
4. Participates in medical rounds, patient care meetings, and ongoing education sessions. Engages in quality improvement projects and cross-training opportunities.
5. Develops, executes, and oversees nutrition care plans while contributing to discharge planning. Provides education using recognized behavioral change methodologies.
6. May oversee and guide the work of others within the department. Accurately documents all aspects of nutritional care in patient records.
7. Engages in the training of clinical nutrition interns by serving as a mentor throughout the year.

Educational Qualifications:
* A Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution with coursework recognized by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).
* Completion of an accredited Coordinated Program in Dietetics or Dietetic Internship with a minimum of 900 hours (1200 hours for programs initiated in 2012 or later).
Licensure/Certification:
* Registered Dietitian (RD) credential from The Commission of Dietetic Registration (CDR).
* Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (LDN) in North Carolina.
Professional Experience:
* Prior experience may not be necessary, except for specific roles.
* For Cardiac Rehabilitation positions: Two years of experience as a clinical dietitian in a cardiac rehabilitation or outpatient cardiology setting.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
* Proficient understanding of the Nutrition Care Process and its application.
* Knowledge of medical nutrition therapy principles.
* Familiarity with Motivational Interviewing techniques.
* Strong critical thinking skills to synthesize information and observations.
* Effective decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
* Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for interaction with patients, healthcare staff, and physicians.
* Capability to work independently within assigned patient care areas.
* Ability to educate and counsel patients effectively.
* Basic knowledge of nutrient analysis and proficiency in software applications.

Employer: NCHEALTH
Entity: UNC Physicians Network
Department: Pop Health-UNCPN Care Management
Work Type: Full Time
Standard Hours: 40 hours per week
Schedule: Day Shift
Exempt Status: Yes
Salary Range: Competitive, based on experience and internal equity.

UNC Health Care is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace, ensuring equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.