Advancing Lifelong Learning and Continuing Professional Education in Nutrition and Dietetics to Expand Opportunities, Equity, Access, and Future Transformations

Abstract:

Lifelong learning has been integral to advancement of the nutrition and dietetics profession and its practitioners. This paper presents a historical perspective and a current state narrative review, chronicling past and recent developments in nutrition and dietetics continuing professional education (CPE) in the United States, including opportunities for reflective learning and interprofessional continuing education (IPCE). Also explored are the establishment and expansion of the Joint Accreditation organization and its standards, as well as applicable case examples. Additionally, this paper outlines the Commission on Dietetic Registration and the Academy for Nutrition and Dietetic's strategies for advancing inclusion, diversity, equity, and access within the profession and identifies how CPE advancements may facilitate accessible and equitable CPE for an increasingly diverse membership of practitioners.