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Certification in nutrition for physicians
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I was recently asked about certification in nutrition for physicians. There are three options that I am aware of.
The American College of Nutrition founded the Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists in 1993. This certification is open to physicians and other licensed professionals, including physical therapists, dentists, physician assistants and chiropractors. It is also open to those with master’s and PhD's who have training and expertise in nutrition. To be eligible, physicians must demonstrate 50 hours of continuing medical education in nutrition or provide 10 written detailed case studies. Passing the exam designates the candidate as a Certified Nutrition Specialist or CNS. It is necessary to document at least 75 hours of continuing nutrition education every five years to maintain this certification.
The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition formed the National Board of Nutrition Support Certification in 1984. This credential is open to professionals involved in nutritional support, including physicians, nurses and dieticians. Certification is valid for five years at which time a recertification examination must be taken. Many endocrinologists are expanding their inpatient diabetes practices. For those interested, becoming certified and providing consultation in nutrition support might be an additional inpatient service to offer.
The Intersociety Professional Nutritional Education Consortium established the American Board of Physician Nutrition Specialists to recognize physician expertise in clinical nutrition. All candidates must be licensed to practice medicine and be certified by a member board of the American Board of Medical Specialties. Candidates must complete a minimum of six months (1,000 hours) of mentored clinical nutrition experience and training in inpatient and outpatient settings. This training may be in a clinical nutrition fellowship or as part of another subspecialty training program, such as endocrinology, cardiology, gastroenterology and others. The certificate is valid for 10 years. Endocrine fellows with an interest in nutrition should look into the requirements further so they may obtain the required training during their fellowship in endocrinology.
Much of what endocrinologists do is directly or indirectly related to nutrition. Many of our patients have questions relating to nutrition but are unsure of who they should turn to. If you are interested in nutrition, one or more of the above certifications may be for you.