1. Pittsburgh, PA Licensure Training Workshop Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation Heather Harrington-Peracchio, MS, RD, CD-N

2. Presentation Overview Licensure What is it? Where is Connecticut? Why might we need it? What is the Model Practice Act? What is a licensure board? Why report harm/violation? What can you do? 2

3. Licensure is a state statue or law in place that protects the public and scope of practice for a health profession. 3 What is Licensure?

4. 4 Where do states currently fall?

5. Because – Our Current Environment Demands It!  Other health professionals are seeking advancement  Health Care Reform may include provisions for services for licensed health professionals  A strong scope of practice is essential in current competitive environment  Licensing protects the public health by establishing minimum educational and experience 5 Why Should Licensure be a Priority?

6. Why this should be on your radar… 6 Competition and scope creep can jeopardize jobs and professional influence Health care reform may prioritize the “licensed” professional The need for clarity in the public is great and impacts public perception of the RD Elected officials have been given the myths; licensure helps to define the bright line of the profession The risk of being grouped together with all who seek nutrition practice will impact the entire profession Other health groups are vocal

7. Model Practice Act = Tool for Affiliates (like Connecticut!) to use when seeking licensure Provides guidance to states 7

8. What is a Licensure Board? States with licensure laws have licensure boards Boards may be composed of dietitians and/or other health professionals that review incidents of harm. 8

9. Licensure boards establish standards for the profession and…….. Boards stop unqualified persons who attempt to practice if they are not licensed. That is a basic tenet to limiting harm for citizens. 9

10. Visit State Legislators You are the experts You are qualified to speak on our issues Utilize personal connections Affiliate membersState Legislators You are an important resource You are their constituents

11. ADA is seeking specific reports of harm – violations of licensure statutes Our profession needs your active participation!

12. 12 Violations of certification law Incidents that create potential harm to public What should be reported?

13. 13 Without reports of violations and harm …  No investigations  No discipline  Few board actions  Value of licensing board gets questioned  Board’s existence is diminished!  Sunset can occur! Why Should You Report ?

14. 14 Support your profession: help your state protect the scope of practice Each professional needs to take a step to support their licensure or certification statute Your Role:

15. What Can You Do?  Be well informed on the licensure issues  Collect data on violations of harm & report them  Advocacy and visibility are important in protecting your scope of practice  Stay connected with state legislators and your governor  Remind your RD colleagues and friends (non-CDA members) to submit their e-mail address to CDA or ADA

16. 16 Be involved in your state affiliate! The Connecticut Dietetic Association would love to have your participation. To stay active please: Read listserv e-mails Read bulletins Visit our website: www.eatrightct.orgwww.eatrightct.org Follow us on twitter: @eatrightct Follow us on facebook: “Connecticut Dietetic Association”