Registration Policies & Guidelines

Authority: Health Professions Act, section 20; CDBC Bylaws, section 43(3).

Background:

Registration is granted through Committee review and approval of a summary of the information submitted by the applicant, as compiled by the Manager Registration and Communications and verified by the Registrar/Deputy Registrar.

All applicants who have successfully completed academic and practical training programs that are not listed in Schedule “C” of the CDBC Bylaws must have their dietetic knowledge, skills, abilities, and judgement assessed for currency and substantial equivalence to the Canadian Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice (ICDEP). Such applicants will be granted temporary registration for up to one (1) year (renewable once) if they:

a) have a combination of knowledge, skills, abilities, and judgement which satisfy substantial equivalence to the academic and practical training programs listed in Schedule “C” of the CDBC Bylaws;
b) have successfully completed any academic and/or practical upgrading requirements as determined by policy Rc-15: Assessment for Substantial Equivalence and approved by the Registration Committee; and
  c) meet all other requirements as specified in section 43(1) of the CDBC Bylaws.

Policy:

1) All applicants must demonstrate currency of dietetic knowledge, skills, abilities, and judgement as per policy Rc-06: Currency of Dietetic Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Judgement.

2) The Registration Committee will review and approve a summary of information submitted by an applicant as compiled by the Registrar/Deputy Registrar. The summary will include details of an applicant’s:
a) Assessment for Substantial Equivalence results;
b) academic education program;
c) practical training program; and
  d) volunteer or work experience relevant to dietetics.

3)  Official application for registration documents that are not written in English must be translated into English by a certified translator, at the expense of the applicant.
a) To ensure authenticity, applicants must arrange for translated and official documents to be submitted by translators and institutions directly to the College.
b) When official documents are not available from the applicant’s university or internship program due to war, political instability, civil unrest, catastrophic events, etc., the College will accept verified or notarized copies of official documents.
c) In very rare circumstances, if these documents are not available, CDBC staff must verify that documents are not attainable. Findings will be presented to the Registration Committee for review to determine if an Assessment for Substantial Equivalence may proceed.

4)  An applicant’s academic credentials must be verified by a credential evaluation agency as being authentic and showing successful completion of post-secondary education equivalent to, at minimum, a Canadian bachelor’s degree, with a focus in dietetics
  a) Accepted credential evaluation agencies include the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES), the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS), and the World Education Services (WES).
  b)  To ensure authenticity, credential evaluation reports must be sent directly from the evaluating agency to the CDBC.

5) Academic education will be assessed as being substantially equivalent to programs listed in Schedule C of the Bylaws if the Registration Committee determines that:
  a) the academic program was assessed by a member of the Alliance of Canadian Dietetic Regulatory Bodies, as being equivalent to Canadian dietetic education;
   i. Copies of official transcripts, translations, credential evaluations and education assessments containing the Regulatory Body’s official seal must be received directly from the Alliance member.
or
b) the academic program was previously assessed by the College’s Registration Committee as being substantially equivalent to a degree granted by a program listed in Schedule C of the Bylaws.
   i. Copies of official transcripts, translations, credential evaluations, and education assessments must be included in the application.

6) Practical training/internship programs will be assessed as being substantially equivalent to programs listed in Schedule C of the Bylaws if the Registration Committee determines that:
  a) the practical training/internship program was previously assessed by a member of the Alliance of Canadian Dietetic Regulatory Bodies as being substantially equivalent to Canadian practical training/internship programs;
 i. Copies of official practical training/internship verification containing the Regulatory Body’s official seal must be received directly from the Alliance member.
or
  b) the practical training/internship program was previously assessed by the College’s Registration Committee.
   i. Copies of the official practical training/internship verification/attestations completed within three (3) years of the Committee’s review date must be included in the applicant’s file.

7) The Registration Committee will determine requirements for academic upgrading for applicants who meet the minimum passing requirements of the Competence Self-Verification portion of the Assessment for Substantial Equivalence process (see policy Rc-15: Assessment for Substantial Equivalence). 
  a) Academic upgrading requirements must be completed according to policy Rc-06: Currency of Dietetic Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Judgement.
  b) Academic upgrading courses in clinical nutrition, population and public health nutrition, and nutrition management must be completed prior to beginning practical training upgrading in these practice areas.

8) The Registration Committee will determine that academic upgrading requirements have been met by reviewing official transcripts and/or certificates for successfully completed courses.
  a) Official transcripts and/or certificates must be sent directly from the granting institutions to the CDBC.

9) The Registration Committee will determine requirements for practical training upgrading based on:
  a) relevant work experience listed in the applicant’s current resume that demonstrates completion of performance indicators of the ICDEP; and
  b) formal practical training reports submitted by the applicant’s internship provider.

10) Practical training upgrading requirements must be Canadian experiences under the supervision of current, Canadian Registered Dietitians granted privileges equivalent to Full Registrants of the CDBC.
  a) The number of practical training upgrading hours and areas of focus for this experience (clinical, population and public health, management) will complement the applicant’s practical training/internship and work experience.

11) The Registration Committee will determine that practical training upgrading requirements have been met by reviewing:
a) official documents verifying completion of the ICDEP (i.e., Professional Practice, Communication and Collaboration, Nutrition Care, Population and Public Health, and Management); or
b) official CDBC attestation documents verifying that ICDEP and upgrading practice hours havebeen met. Attestation documents are completed by the applicant and signed by the dietitian supervisor.
Note: All official documents must be sent directly from the granting supervisor or institution to the CDBC.

12) All upgrading must be completed within the timeframe set by the Registration Committee, up to a maximum of three (3) years. In extenuating circumstances, an extension to the assigned upgrading period may be granted by the Registration Committee upon receipt and review of a written request from an applicant.

Authority

HPA, section 20; CDBC Bylaws, sections 45, 47 and 57

Definitions

1) Sole and Private Practitioner: a registrant of the CDBC, working in any sector (i.e. private, public or not-for-profit sector ) who is functioning independently, and in isolation, and without oversight by a CDBC Full registrant
  i) Private Sector: the segment of the economy that is run by individuals and companies, rather than government. This includes small businesses and consultants/contractors. Most private sector organizations are run with the intention of making profit.
   ii) Public Sector: the segment of the economy under control of government.
   iii) Not-for-profit Sector: the segment of the economy run by charities and non-profit organizations. Note: Such organizations are more commonly considered part of the private sector.

2) Mentorship: a process for the informal transmission of knowledge and the psychosocial support perceived by the recipient as relevant to work, career, or professional development. Mentoring entails informal communication, usually face-to-face and during a sustained period of time, between a person who is perceived to have greater relevant knowledge, wisdom, or experience and a person who is perceived to have less.

3) Supervision: a situation in which a person’s practice is overseen by a Full Registrant; the scope, the nature and form of that supervision is to be applied in accordance with relevant policies, standards or guidelines approved by the Board.

Background

In accordance with section 20 of the Health Professions Act, the Registration Committee must grant registration to every person who satisfies the requirements of the bylaws, applies for registration, and pays the required fees. Registration is granted through Committee review and approval of a summary of the information submitted by the applicant, as compiled by the Registrar.
The following policy is intended to clarify the temporary registration requirements outlined in sections 45, 47 and 57 of the bylaws.

Policy

1) The application for registration form (Form #3) must be fully completed, including:
  a) Personal and contact information for the public record.
  b) Original or notarized name change documentation is required if the applicant’s name differs from the name on the applicant’s official transcript or practical training documentation. Note: Official application for registration documents that are not written in English must be translated into English by a certified translator, at the expense of the applicant.

2) Applicants must submit authentic evidence that the academic and practical training requirements have been met.

3) Authentic evidence of successful completion of an approved academic program is outlined in Board policy Bd-07: Criteria for Board Approval of Education Programs, and includes:
  a) official transcripts sent directly to the College from all post-secondary academic institutions where courses or degrees were earned that contributed towards the degree granted in dietetics. The accredited dietetics education program that granted the degree must be listed in Schedule “C” of the bylaws; or
  b) official verification that the applicant’s academic education, including any required academic upgrading, is substantially equivalent to the Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice (see Registration Committee policy Rc-03: Full Registration – Substantial Equivalence).

4) Authentic evidence of successful completion of a practical training program is outlined in Board policy Bd-07: Criteria for Board Approval of Education Programs, and includes:
  a) inclusion on the applicant’s official transcript of an accredited integrated (staged, coordinated) undergraduate program in dietetics that includes practical training. The integrated program must be listed in Schedule “C” of the bylaws; or
  b) inclusion on the applicant’s official transcript of an accredited combined masters or doctorate post-graduate program in dietetics that includes practical training. The combined program must be listed in Schedule “C” of the bylaws; or
  c) official verification that the applicant’s practical training, including any required academic upgrading, is substantially equivalent to the Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice (see Registration Committee policy Rc-03: Full Registration – Substantial Equivalence); or
  d) from applicants who completed a Canadian “academic-only” bachelor, master or doctorate degree in dietetics:
   i. official verification of internship completion sent directly to the College, from the authorized signatory or head of an accredited Internship program listed in Schedule “C” of the bylaws; or
   ii. official competency attestation documents that indicate completion of the practical competencies in the Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice.

5) Applicants from integrated (also known as staged or coordinated) academic and practical training programs listed on Schedule C of the Bylaws are considered eligible for Temporary Registration if, prior to official transcripts being available:
  a) an official letter is received from the education institution stating that the applicant has successfully completed all academic program requirements; and
  b) an official letter is received from the education institution, signed by the Director of the internship program or Course coordinator of the practical training courses, stating that the applicant has successfully completed all practical training requirements.

6) Determination of the applicant’s ability to “practice as a temporary registrant without any risk to public health and safety” will be made by the Registration Committee based on any information provided by the academic institution and/or practical training agencies.

7) A fully completed and signed criminal record check authorization form, with the correct payment, is required.

8) Fees, as specified in Schedule B of the Bylaws, must be paid in full prior to the processing of the application.

9) Terms and conditions for practicing in the Temporary Registration class include:
  a) not supervising dietitians in the Full Registration class as per section 45 (5) of the Bylaws; and
  b) not being appointed to or serving on any committee or panel of the College; and
  c) not practicing as sole and private practitioner; and
  d) using the title “Registered Dietitian – Temporary,” with the initials “RD (T),” as per section 43 (7) of the Bylaws.

10) A Temporary Registrant wishing to practice as a sole and private practitioner may be permitted to do so under the mentorship of a CDBC Full Registrant only, according to policy Rc-19: Sole and Private Practitioner.

11) A Temporary Registrant wishing to practice Restricted Activities may be permitted to do so according to requirements outlined in policy Rc-13: Application and Declaration to Practice Restricted Activities.

12) Eligible applicants may be registered in the Temporary Registration class for up to one (1) year.
  a) Temporary registration may be renewed once as per section 45 (2) of the Bylaws.
  b) registration is transferred to the Full Registration class upon successful completion of the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination and the Jurisprudence Examination for Dietitians as per section 45 (3) of the Bylaws.

13) A Temporary Registrant who fails the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE) is permitted practice only under direct supervision of a Full CDBC Registrant, according to policy Rc-20: Supervision After CDRE Failure.

14) The statutory declaration (Form 4) must be completed, signed dated, and notarized by a notary public or lawyer registered, licensed, or commissioned in Canada.

Authority

HPA section 20. CDBC Bylaws, sections 43, 45, 49, and 52-55. Schedule B, Fees. Schedule C, Approved Entry-Level Dietetic Education Programs.

Purpose

Graduates from Canadian approved programs as outlined in Schedule C, internationally educated dietitians, dietitians registered with other Canadian dietetic regulators, and former registrants may apply for registration with the CDBC. Applicants with extenuating circumstances may be granted an accommodation for application requirements and/or fees. The accommodation must not interfere with the integrity of the application process.

The CDBC policy on the “Registrar’s Limited Authority to Act for the Registration Committee”, describes the types of applications that the Registrar or delegate can approve on behalf of the Registration Committee. The Registration Committee authorizes the Registrar to act on its behalf to review requests and grant accommodations within established criteria. All decisions are based on an assessment of an applicant’s individual circumstances, and follow principles of fairness, equity, objectivity, and confidentiality. The Registrar has the discretion to consult with legal counsel, the Registration, Quality Assurance, Inquiry, and Discipline Committees before deciding on requests, when needed.

Definitions

Major illness or injury is “a serious illness or injury which precludes an individual from performing their professional duties for more than 7 consecutive days or requires an in- patient surgery or hospitalization. It may include any of the following diseases: heart attack, cancer, stroke, coma, kidney or liver failure, organ transplant, aneurysm, traumatic brain injury.”
It “carries a high risk of mortality and either negatively impacts a person’s daily function or quality of life, or excessively strains their caregivers.”

Trauma is “the challenging emotional consequences that living through a distressing event can have for an individual”. Examples of trauma may include, but is not limited to accident, violent assault, sexual assault or abuse, physical abuse, and death of a close family member or friend.

Disability is “an umbrella term, covering impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. An impairment is a problem in body function or structure; an activity limitation is a difficulty encountered by an individual in executing a task or action; while a participation restriction is a problem experienced by an individual in involvement in life situations.”

Policy

1) In extenuating circumstances, applicants who are unable to pay the registration fees or fulfil the usual application requirements and timelines, may request an accommodation. Extenuating circumstances may include, but are not limited to:
a) Financial crisis (e.g., bankruptcy)
b) Major illness or injury
c) Trauma following a recent event
d) Disability

2) Accommodations during the application process may include, but are not limited to (as applicable):
a) Registration fees for full, temporary and non-practicing registration per Schedule B may be made in instalments according to a mutually agreed timeline. The instalment fees are calculated based on the amount of registration fees required at the time of registration. The instalment payment timeline cannot be extended or renewed.
b) Accommodation on the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination per the “CDRE Accommodations” section on the CDRE page
c) Maintenance of active application stage for longer than the usual time limit of 6 months of inactivity (as described in the “Time Limitation on Open Applications” policy), immediately following the date of the last documented correspondence
d) Staff support on how to complete the registration application process

3) Requests may be in writing via mail, email, or transcribed by College staff during a phone call, depending on the applicant’s circumstances at the time the request is made.

4) Requests should include the following information:
a) The applicant’s name
b) CDBC ID or registration number
c) Date of request, accommodation and time frame requested
d) Current work status
e) The reason for the request and any information that may be pertinent and supportive of the request (e.g., employer note, financial information, regulated health care professional’s note)

5) Requests for accommodation under section 2 should be communicated to the CDBC as soon as possible to prevent delays in the application process.

6) Applicants will be notified by email of the decision within 5 business days of receipt of their request. The decision timeline may be longer if additional information or clarification is needed.

7) Applicants may request registration fee accommodations as described in section 2) a); however, they may not request a waiver of registration fees that differ from the ones legislated in Schedule B.

8) Initial application and reinstatement fees are non-deferrable and non-refundable.

References

1. Government of Canada. Federal Disability Reference Guide; accessed July 6, 2023.

2. Law Insider. Major illness definition; accessed July 6, 2023.

3. National Library of Medicine. Identifying the Population with Serious Illness: The “Denominator Challenge”; accessed July 6, 2023.

4. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Trauma; accessed July 6, 2023.

Authority

HPA section 20; CDBC Bylaws, sections 43, 45, 50, 51; and CDBC Schedule B, Fees.

Purpose

All full registrants are required to renew their registration annually. Temporary registrations may be renewed by the Registration Committee once for a period of up to 1 year following the period that the first temporary registration was granted. Each renewing registrant must pay the registration renewal fee on or before March 31 annually. Late registration fees for full and temporary registrants are outlined in schedule B.

Full and temporary registrants of the CDBC with extenuating circumstances may be granted a waiver of late registration fees and/or accommodation for renewing their registration. On November 4, 2022, the Board agreed to delegate the authority to the Registrar to consider requests and grant accommodations within established criteria. All decisions will be based on an assessment of a registrant’s individual circumstances, and follow principles of fairness, equity, objectivity, and confidentiality. The Registrar has discretion to consult with legal counsel, the Registration Committee, and the Quality Assurance Committee before deciding on requests, when needed.

Definitions

Major illness or injury is “a serious illness or injury which precludes an individual from performing their professional duties for more than 7 consecutive days or requires an in- patient surgery or hospitalization. It may include any of the following diseases: heart attack, cancer, stroke, coma, kidney or liver failure, organ transplant, aneurysm, traumatic brain injury.”
It “carries a high risk of mortality and either negatively impacts a person’s daily function or quality of life, or excessively strains their caregivers.”

Trauma is “the challenging emotional consequences that living through a distressing event can have for an individual”. Examples of trauma may include, but is not limited to accident, violent assault, sexual assault or abuse, physical abuse, and death of a close family member or friend.

Disability is “an umbrella term, covering impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. An impairment is a problem in body function or structure; an activity limitation is a difficulty encountered by an individual in executing a task or action; while a participation restriction is a problem experienced by an individual in involvement in life situations.”

Policy

1) In extenuating circumstances, registrants who are unable to pay the renewal fees or complete any other requirement by March 31 annually may request an accommodation. Extenuating circumstances may include, but are not limited to:
a) Financial crisis (e.g., bankruptcy)
b) Major illness or injury
c) Trauma following a recent event
d) Disability

2) Accommodation on registration renewal requirements may include:
a) Deferral of registration renewal fees to no later than May 31
b) Instalment payments with 2-3 instalments to be paid in totality no later than May 31
c) Extension of the Continuing Competence Program report and/or deferral of the Jurisprudence Examination to no later than May 31
d) Staff support to complete a renewal application.

3) Accommodation on late renewal may include:
a) Waiver of late registration fees for full or temporary registrants
b) Staff support to complete a late renewal application

4) Requests may be in writing via mail, email, or transcribed by college staff during a phone call, depending on the registrant’s circumstances at the time the request is made.

5) Requests should include the following information:
a) The registrant’s name and CDBC registration number
b) Date of request, accommodation requested, time frame requested
c) Current work status
d) The reason for the request and any information that may be pertinent and supportive of the request (e.g., employer note, regulated health care professional’s note).

6) Requests for accommodation under section 2 should be communicated to CDBC as soon as possible, no later than 5 business days before the March 31 deadline. Requests for accommodation under section 3 should be submitted as soon as possible after April 1 and no later than 5 business days before May 31.

7) Registrants will be notified by email of the decision as soon as possible, within 5 business days of receipt of their request. Additional information or clarification may be requested in order to make the decision.

8) Registrants may request accommodations as defined above; however, they may not request a waiver of registration fees that differ from the ones legislated in schedule B.

9) Registrants who request a late renewal accommodation and are actively practicing need to renew while their information is being reviewed and awaiting a decision.

References:

1. Government of Canada. Federal Disability Reference Guide; accessed July 6, 2023.

2. Law Insider. Major illness definition; accessed July 6, 2023.

3. National Library of Medicine. Identifying the Population with Serious Illness: The “Denominator” Challenge; accessed July 6, 2023.

4. The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. Trauma; accessed July 6, 2023.

Authority: CDBC Bylaws, section 49(2) to (5).

 Purpose: to clarify the conditions which must be met to be eligible to apply for a third and final attempt at the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE).

Background:

The Board has approved the CDRE as one of the examinations that qualifies applicants to be eligible to apply to register in the Full Registration class.

The Alliance of Canadian Dietetic Regulatory Bodies (Alliance), through a third-party testing agency, manages the CDRE and sets policies and procedures for its administration. According to these policies, the regulatory bodies assess and register qualified candidates to write the CDRE.

The College monitors the number of times a candidate has unsuccessfully attempted the examination and the time-frame in which these attempts were made. After the second failure of the examination, the College must determine additional education and/or practical training required before a candidate is considered current in dietetic knowledge, skills, abilities, and judgement to be eligible to take a third and final attempt at the CDRE.

Policy:

• The Alliance’s policies and procedures for the administration of the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE) are accepted by the Registration Committee of the CDBC.

• A current or former temporary registrant who has failed a second attempt at the CDRE must:
  1. be assessed by the Registration Committee for currency in dietetic skills, knowledge, abilities, and judgement; and
  2. complete any academic and/or practical training upgrading requirements identified by the Registration Committee prior to being eligible to apply to take the third and final attempt at the CDRE.

• Any upgrading required will be identified using the individual’s CDRE Performance Reports provided by the CDRE testing agency. Upgrading may include:
  1. successful completion of CDBC Registration Committee Approved Upgrading Courses; and/or
  2. successful completion of practical training upgrading.

• Practical training upgrading may be obtained concurrently with academic upgrading.

• Practical training upgrading must be:
  1. approved by the Registration Committee prior to implementation;
  2. a minimum number of hours set by the Registration Committee;
  3. designed in consultation with a Registered Dietitian who is familiar with:
     1. the Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice (ICDEP);
     2. entry-to-practice level knowledge, skills, abilities, and judgement; and

• assessing dietetic practicum students;

1. completed in British Columbia; and
2. supervised by a CDBC Full Registrant in good standing.

• Direct supervision is required for the first portion of the practical upgrading. As the practicum placement progresses, candidates transition to more independent practice.

1. Supervision by the RD evolves from direct monitoring and guidance to indirect oversite and mentoring, as candidates’ knowledge, skills, abilities and judgement reach entry-to-practice levels of competence.
2. The supervising RD must submit a signed Attestation of Competence Form for Practical Training Upgrading (attached Appendix), along with the practical training upgrading plan designed with the individual.
3. The supervising RD must declare any conflict of interest prior to accepting the placement.

• Upgrading candidates must meet the requirements of each facility where practical training upgrading is undertaken, including professional liability coverage. Note: Any costs related to practical training placements are the responsibility of the candidate (e.g., liability insurance, criminal records checks, travel, etc.).

• The Registration Committee will set the deadline for candidates to complete any identified upgrading.
• The Registration Committee will determine that academic and practical training upgrading requirements have been met by:
  1. reviewing official transcripts of successfully competed academic course(s);
  2. reviewing official CDBC Competency Evaluation Form(s), that are signed by the supervising RD, detailing the Performance Indicators successfully achieved, and
  3. determining that all aspects of the individual’s upgrading plan have been successfully completed and that required practice hours have been met.

• In an extenuating circumstance, current or former temporary registrants who are unable to complete upgrading requirements by the assigned deadline may request an extension in writing. Circumstances may include, but are not limited to:
  1. Accidents
  2. Bereavement
  3. Illness or injury
  4. Weather or travel disruption
  5. Family or personal crisis
  6. Lack of course availability.

• Extensions to complete the upgrading should not alter the regulatory body’s ability to determine whether the candidate is eligible to write the CDRE.

• Extensions to complete the upgrading may be granted by the Registration Committee upon receipt and review of a written request from an individual. The Registration Committee may require supporting documents to provide evidence for the extenuating circumstance.

ATTESTATION OF COMPETENCE

DIETITIAN SUPERVISOR – PRACTICAL TRAINING UPGRADING

As a Registered Dietitian (RD) you may be asked to attest to the competence of a candidate who is pursuing registration with the CDBC. This may include attestation of competence for:

1. an individual seeking re-entry to the dietetics profession who needs to complete practical training upgrading to meet the current competencies;
2. an internationally educated individual seeking entry to the profession who must complete practical training upgrading to meet the current competencies for practicing dietetics in Canada;
3. a current or former temporary CDBC registrant who must complete practical training upgrading requirements set out by the CDBC Registration Committee in order to re-attempt the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination; or
4. an individual who must complete practical training upgrading to meet requirements set out by the CDBC Inquiry Committee.

Your signature on an Attestation of Competence Form indicates that:

1. you will personally supervise and evaluate a candidate in their overall performance of practical training upgrading activities;

• If you will not conduct daily supervision of a candidate, you will delegate an appropriate and experienced RD preceptor(s) to supervise and evaluate the candidate’s upgrading activities.

2. you are a Full Registrant of the CBDC during the supervised the practical training upgrading;
3. the activities performed by the candidate will be fully and accurately described in the Self-Directed Practicum Placement Guide above your signature; and
4. candidates will be evaluated as performing practicum activities independently, legally, safely, and competently to the level expected of an entry-level Dietitian who poses no risk of harm to the public.

• The supervising RD must declare any conflict of interest prior to accepting the placement. Please refer to the Standards of Practice Indicators & Outcomes’ Standard 8: A Dietitian identifies and manages any real, perceived, or potential conflict of interest.

It is the responsibility of the CDBC Registration Committee, or the Inquiry Committee, to determine the acceptability of a planned practical training upgrading program. Committee members look for proof of competence attainment for the Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice (ICDEP).

Signing an Attestation of Competence form carries significant responsibility. It is a serious offence to sign an Attestation of Competence Form for a candidate if you are not confident this candidate is competent to practice dietetics to the level expected of an entry-level Dietitian who poses no risk of harm to the public. The CDBC Registration and Inquiry Committees review attestations and rely on the attesters to confirm that candidates have attained safe and competent levels of practice.

The Dietitian responsible for supervising a practical training has the discretion to require additional hours of upgrading to ensure the candidate is competent to practice dietetics to the level expected of an entry-level dietitian who poses no risk of harm to the public.

If you have any questions about the applicant or the attestation of competence process, please contact the CDBC.

FORM

Authority

HPA sections 16 (2) (c) & (e), CDBC bylaws sections 43, 52, to 54 and 58.

Background

As part of quality assurance, it is the duty of dietitians to maintain currency in dietetic knowledge, skills, abilities and judgement in order to practice safely, ethically and competently.

Policy

Currency Requirements for Applicants

1. All academic and practical training requirements for any application for registration must be completed less than three years prior to the date that registration is granted.

Currency Requirements for Reinstatement

Summary of Currency Requirements – Current & Former Registrants

Within the 3 year currency period

2. Former or non-practicing registrants who are applying for reinstatement will be considered current if:
a. the application for reinstatement is within 36 months of the last registration with the CDBC, and
b. evidence of successfully meeting the Continuing Competence Program requirement for reinstatement is provided

After the 3 year currency period; less than six years

3. In order to be eligible for reinstatement, former and non-practicing registrants whose registrations have expired for more than 36 months, but less than six years, must demonstrate currency by completing the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination and the Jurisprudence Examination for Dietitians.
4. Such candidates for reinstatement must submit:
a. a completed Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination Application form via the CDBC’s online platform;
b. the CDRE application fee per Schedule B;
c. a completed Application for Reinstatement via the CDBC’s online platform; and
d. the Application for Reinstatement fee per Schedule B.

More than six years

5. In order to be eligible for reinstatement, former or non-practicing registrants, whose registration have expired for more than 6 years, must:
a. be assessed by the Registration Committee for currency in dietetic skills, knowledge, abilities and judgement using the Assessment for Substantial Equivalence process (see policy Rc-15: Assessment for Substantial Equivalence): and
b. successfully complete any academic and/or practical training upgrading as determined by the Registration Committee

6. Such candidates for reinstatement must submit:
a. a completed Application for Assessment for Substantial Equivalence using the CDBC online platform; and
b. the Assessment for Substantial Equivalence fees per Schedule B

7. The Registration Committee will determine that academic and/or practical training upgrading requirements for currency have been met by:
a. reviewing official transcripts and/or certificates of successfully competed course(s); and
b. reviewing official attestation documents completed by the applicant and signed by the CDBC registrant supervisor that Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice and upgrading practice hours have been met.All Official documents verifying completion of upgrading must be sent directly from the granting institutions and/or supervisors to the CBDC.

8. All required upgrading for currency must be completed prior to applying for the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination and the Jurisprudence Examination for Dietitians.

9. Upon completion of all required upgrading, candidates must submit:
a. a completed Canadian Dietetic Registration Application Form, using the CDBC online platform; and
b. the CDRE application fee per Schedule B
c. a completed Application for Reinstatement Form, using the CDBC online platform; and
d. the Application for Reinstatement fee per Schedule B

Authority

HPA s. 20(2.1), 20(2.2) and 20(6); CDBC Bylaws sections 43 (1) & (2), 44, 46 and 52

Purpose

to authorize the Registrar to act on behalf of the Registration Committee, and to describe in which situations the Registrar may act.

Policy

1) The Registrar has limited authority to act in the Registration Committee’s stead when the applicant is applying for Temporary Registration and has:
a) successfully completed an approved academic degree and internship program in dietetics listed in Schedule C of the bylaws; OR
b) successfully completed academic and/ or practical training upgrading requirements previously determined or approved by the Registration; OR
c) submitted forms and documents that do not require any explanatory notes.

2) The Registrar may act in the Registration Committee’s stead when the applicant is applying for Full Registration under:
a) section 43(2) of the CDBC bylaws for applicants who practice dietetics in another Canadian jurisdictions;
b) section 44 of the CDBC bylaws in the event of a disaster; and
c) section 52 of the CDBC bylaws for reinstatement when returning to practice within 3 years.

3) The Registrar may act in the Registration Committee’s stead when the applicant is applying for Non-practicing Registration under section 46 of the CDBC bylaws.

4) Even with written authority, in accordance with sections 20(2.1) and 20(2.2) of the Health Professions Act, the Registrar may not grant registration under the following circumstances:
a) If registration is refused, granted for a limited time period or granted with terms and conditions when:
i) a person’s registration has been cancelled or suspended,
ii) an investigation is under way, or
iii) the person has been convicted of an indictable offence.

5) At every in-person meeting of the Registration Committee, the Registrar provides a status report on registration applications approved since the last meeting. The Registration Status Report includes:
a) approved applicants’ names,
b) registration class, and
c) date of approval.

Authority

Health Professions Act section19; CDBC bylaws section 43(1)(e)

Background

In accordance with Bylaws section 43(1)(e), an applicant for registration with the College must demonstrate good character.
This policy identifies the criteria used to determine evidence of good character for registration with the CDBC.

Policy

1) An applicant applying for registration demonstrates good character by::
a) completing Good Character Evidence on the Application for Registration Form (Form #3), and
b) completing the Statutory Declaration in the presence of a Notary Public or Commissioner for Taking Affidavits, and
c) meeting the Criminal Record Check requirement established by the Ministry of Justice by submitting the Authorization form for a Consent to Criminal Record Check with their CDBC application.

2) An applicant applying for registration via a recognized labour mobility agreement demonstrates good character by:
a) providing evidence as noted above, and
b) CDBC receiving verification of the applicant’s registration in good standing from the sending jurisdiction.

Authority

Health Professions Act, section 19 and Dietitians Regulation; CDBC Bylaws, section 47; and CDBC Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

Background

Restricted activities are a narrowly defined list of invasive, higher risk activities that must not be performed by any person in the course of providing health services, except
a) members of a regulated profession that has been granted specific authority to do so in their regulations, based on their education and competence, and
b) unregulated persons who have been delegated the authority to perform the restricted activity, or who have been authorized to perform the restricted activity, by a member of a regulated profession that has been granted the restricted activity (1).

Restricted Activities specific to BC Registered Dietitians are defined in the Dietitians Regulation of the Health Professions Act – “no person other than a registrant who meets the additional qualifications set out in the bylaws of the college may:
a) design, compound or dispense therapeutic diets if nutrition is administered through enteral means,
b) design therapeutic diets if nutrition is administered through parenteral means, or
c) administer a substance to a person by instillation through enteral or parenteral means.”

As per the Code of Ethics, principle 3 and the Standards of Practice, it is the RD’s duty to ensure safe, competent and ethical practice. A Registered Dietitian must be practice ready when performing any Restricted Activity. Practice readiness is defined as confidence in the Registered Dietitian’s ability to independently fulfill the duties and responsibilities required in any area of dietetic practice – the Registered Dietitian is “ready to practice” independently as outlined in the Professional Practice Guidelines.

Restricted Activities are displayed on the public register of the CDBC website and allow the public and employers to confirm that a registrant is allowed to perform them and can expect their practice to be safe, competent, and ethical.

Policy

Initial Registration of Restricted Activities (RAs)
1) Initial registration to practice RAs is required for anyone who intends to perform enteral and/or parenteral nutrition support as:
a) a first-time registrant; or
b) a former registrant newly reinstated with the College; or 
c) a current registrant who has not registered to practice enteral or parenteral nutrition support.

2) Any registrant who wishes to practice RAs for the first time, must apply for an initial registration for each RA that the registrant intends to perform.
a) Declare intent to practice, in the CDBC’s registration or renewal application, for each RA performed; and
b) Pay the initial RA application fee(s) per CDBC’s Schedule B

3) Registrants who practice RAs must take steps to ensure initial practice readiness through course work and practical experience and maintain practice readiness through the CDBC’s Quality Assurance Continuing Competence Program (CCP).

4) If a RD declares intent to practice RAs but does not feel practice ready (for example, due to extended absence or lack of confidence, experience or opportunity), the RD must not practice the RAs. Note: It is the RD’s responsibility to take steps to ensure practice readiness through CCP activities.

5) Initial registration to practice RAs must be complete prior to practicing RAs and may be applied for at any time during the current CDBC fiscal year.

Renewal of Declarations to Practice Restricted Activities
6) Intent to practice RAs must be declared annually in the CDBC registration renewal application.

7) Declarations to practice RAs expire on March 31 of the current fiscal year, regardless of the RA registration start date of.

Removal of Restricted Activity
8) If a registrant no longer intends or is no longer required to practice with a restricted activity, they may remove it from their registration status during annual renewal.

9) If a registrant chooses to renew the restricted activity and practices that restricted activity in the new renewal year, they must report on the restricted activity in their annual CCP to ensure maintenance of their competencies and safe dietetic care delivery.

10) If a registrant chooses to renew a restricted activity by mistake or did not practice the restricted activity since renewal, the registrant may request removal of the restricted activity from their registration status and public register by May 31. Once removed, the registrant is no longer able to practice the RA and no longer needs to report on the restricted activity in their annual CCP. Registrants who practiced restricted activities on or after April 1 are not eligible to request removal of the RA from their registration status and must report on the restricted activity in their annual CCP.

11) Registrants may stop practicing a restricted activity at any time during a registration year but are not eligible to remove the restricted activity and the CCP requirement until the next renewal period.

12) If a registrant removes a restricted activity from their registration status and later chooses to register again with the restricted activity, they must re-apply and pay the applicable fee in accordance with Schedule B.

(1) Province of British Columbia – http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/practitioner-professional-resources/professional-regulation/scope-of-practice-reform

Authority

CDBC Bylaws sections 43, 45 and 49, Alliance CDRE Policies and Procedures

Background

Sections 43 and 45 of the CDBC Bylaws sets out the requirements for full and temporary registration.

Section 49 of the CDBC Bylaws sets out the examination requirements.

The Alliance of Canadian Dietetic Regulatory Bodies (Alliance), through a third party testing agency, provides the CDRE. The policies and procedures approved by the Alliance for administration of the CDRE are accepted by the Registration Committee of the CDBC.

Policy

1) Those wishing to apply to write the CDRE and access the JED must first complete all otherrequirements for registration (see policy Rc-02: Full Registration).

CDRE

2) To apply to write the May or November sessions of the CDRE, a current or former Temporary Registrant must submit:
  a) a completed CDRE Application Form using the CDBC online platform, and
  b) the CDRE fee
   Note: Applications will not be processed until CDRE fees are received.

3) Applications must be submitted by the application deadline indicated on the CDBC website.
  Note: Late applications will not be accepted.

4) A current or former Temporary Registrant who fails the CDRE must reapply to access the CDRE as in policy item #2 listed above.

5) The maximum number of attempts at the CDRE by any current or former temporaryregistrant is three (3).
  a) A current or former temporary registrant who fails an initial CDRE is entitled to two (2) additional opportunities to re-take the CDRE.
  b) A failed exam that has        been successfully appealed is not counted as a CDRE attempt.

6) For Temporary Registrants whose registrations expire due to failed CDREs, the CDBC will notify employers that such employees are no longer registered to practice dietetics.

7) A current or former Temporary Registrant may appeal the results of a failed CDRE according to the policies and procedures set by the Alliance.

8) Any request for appeal must be:
  a) submitted, in writing, to the CDBC Registrar, and 
  b) received by the CDBC no later than 20 days after receipt of the CDRE results notification letter. 

9) Appeals are relayed to the Alliance Appeals Committee.

10) Following the review of the appeal, the regulatory body will notify the candidate in writing of the Alliance CDRE Appeals Committee decision.

JED:

11) After confirming that all other registration requirements are satisfied, the CDBC will provide JED candidates with online access.

12) Candidates have unlimited attempts to successfully complete the JED.

13) Current or former Temporary Registrants must successfully complete the JED prior to being granted full registration status.

14) Full Registrants must successfully complete the JED every five years, prior to subsequent registration renewal.

Authority

Health Professions Act, section 20; and CDBC Bylaws, sections 43(3) and 54.

Background

Registration is granted through Committee review and approval of a summary of the information submitted by the applicant, as compiled by the Manager Registration and Communications and verified by the Registrar/Deputy Registrar.

The Assessment for Substantial Equivalence is the process by which the CDBC evaluates knowledge, skills, abilities and judgement of:

a) internationally educated dietitians wishing to apply for registration;
b) former and non-practicing registrants, who have been off the public register for more than six (6) years, who wish to be reinstated;
c) former dietitians who are registering with the CDBC for the first time and have ceased to be registered in Canada for more than six (6) years; and
d) graduates from a non-approved Canadian program.

This assessment process allows applicants to have their combined dietetic education, practical training and work experience compared to the recognized standards of current Canadian dietetic practice. It also enables the CDBC to verify competence in all areas of dietetic practice and determine self-directed learning needs to bridge any gaps in knowledge skills abilities and judgement necessary to meet the CDBC registration requirements.

Policy

1) All candidates who require assessments of their dietetic knowledge, skills, abilities and judgement must compete the Assessment for Substantial Equivalence process.

2) All candidates must submit:
a) proof of completion of a competence self-assessment using the Canadian Dietetic Practice Orientation and Self-Assessment Tool (OSAT) – developed and shared by the College of Dietitians of Ontario to provide detailed information about Canadian dietetic practice;
Candidates rate their own knowledge, skills, abilities, and judgement against the Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice (ICDEP).
b) a completed Application for Assessment for Substantial Equivalence through the CDBC online platform;
c) the Assessment for Substantial Equivalence Fees listed in Schedule B of the CDBC Bylaws;
d) any official documents associated with the Application for Assessment for Substantial Equivalence; and
e) a completed Honesty Declaration Form.

3) All application submissions must be received by the CDBC within the timeline of policy Rc-21: Time Limitation for Open Applications.

4) The Assessment for Substantial Equivalence consists of 2 parts:
a) Knowledge Assessment Case Studies (KACS) – designed to verify candidates’ self-ratings and assess knowledge, skills, abilities and judgement against the ICDEP. The KACS is an open-book, multiple-choice questions examination, that is completed independently and online. Answers are electronically graded.
b) A Practical Assessment Interview (PAI) – designed to help identify gaps in practical knowledge, skills, abilities and judgement, for entry-to-practice dietetics. Candidates are interviewed by Dietitians using six (6) case-based scenario questions. Responses are evaluated using a rubric.

Knowledge Assessment Case Studies:

5) Once assessment documents and fees in 2)are received, candidates are sent links to access the online Case Studies via email.

6) Candidates must complete the  Case Studies within 60 days from the date that the links are sent by the CDBC, to ensure currency and reliability of results.

7) The Case Studies address the 5 practice areas defined in the ICDEP. Minimum passing scores for the practice areas are:
a) Professional Practice = 50%
b) Communication & Collaboration = 50%
c) Nutrition Management = 50%
d) Population & Public Health = 50%
e) Nutrition Care = 50%

8) All candidates are advised of results in writing.

9 ) The assessment process is discontinued for candidates who do not meet the minimum passing score in any of the five dietetic practice areas, after two attempts. This is because gaps in knowledge, skills, abilities and judgement are considered too great to remediate through CDBC approved upgrading.

10)After a first Case Studies attempt, options for unsuccessful candidates, after the first attempt include:
a) self-study in the unsuccessful practice area(s) and
b) a final attempt at the Case Studies . Note: Fees are applicable for a second attempt (Substantial Equivalent Assessment fee as described in Schedule B).

11) The scores of candidates who pass the Case Studies are also reviewed for knowledge proficiency to determine if academic upgrading is required. Scores in all five practice areas are assessed against minimum threshold scores set by the Registration Committee. Threshold scores are currently set at:
a) Professional Practice = 60%
b) Communication and Collaboration = 60%
c) Nutrition Care = 70%
d) Population & Public Health Nutrition = 60%
e) Nutrition Management = 60%

12) Candidates who score below the set Case Study threshold scores, in any practice area (i.e. less than 70% for Nutrition Care and less than 60% in all others), are required to complete academic upgrading in those practice areas.

13) Candidates who score above the set threshold scores for the Case Studies are exempt from academic upgrading in the practice areas.

14)Candidates who lack healthcare experience in Canada may be assigned academic upgrading in the following courses:
i) Canadian Health Care System – Culture and Context; University of Toronto, as an introduction to healthcare practice for those with no healthcare experience in Canada; Note – this course has a minimum language proficiency requirement.
and/or
ii) Foodsafe Levels 1 & 2, Foodsafe BC, as an introduction to safe food handling expectations and requirements, in BC.
Candidate may complete these courses without prior Registration Committee approval. However, these assigned courses must be completed in order to be eligible to apply for registration.

Practical Assessment Interview:

15)Once all five practice areas tested in the Case Studies are passed, and the practical assessment fee is received by the CDBC, candidates may access the Practical Assessment Interview (PAI).

16) The PAI is conducted virtually and consists of 6 case-based scenarios that will evaluate the five dietetic practice areas:
a) Professional Practice
b) Communication and Collaboration
c) Nutrition Care (2 scenarios required)
d) Population and Public Health Nutrition
e) Nutrition Management

17) The PAI is audio and video recorded for CDBC evaluation reference only. Consent is obtained at the beginning of each interview. Candidates must provide two pieces of photo ID and sign an honesty declaration prior to the start of the practical interview

18) Interviewers and the applicant must ensure their internet connection is stable and will support videoconferencing for the full duration of the PAI.

19) In order to reduce technical difficulties during the PAI. The applicant and a CDBC staff member will schedule a technical sound and visual test one week prior to the interview. On the scheduled interview day, the applicant and CDBC staff member will do another sound and visual test 15 minutes prior to the start of the interview.f there are technical issues during the PAI that cannot be resolved, the interview will be stopped and rescheduled. If there is evidence or strong suspicion of cheating during the PAI, the interview will be stopped, and an investigation will be launched. A report will be presented to the Registration Committee to determine next steps and impact on registration eligibility.

20) Candidates are permitted 10  minutes to prepare responses before each case study.

Candidates are not permitted to access study aids, or electronic devices during response preparation. Candidates are allowed two blank sheets of paper and a pen or  pencil that must be shown to interviewers at the start of the interview. Candidates can take notes or do calculations on the sheets to help them best answer the questions.

Note: Candidates are not permitted to access study aids or electronic devices during response preparation.

21) During the PAI, candidates have a maximum of fifteen (15) minutes, per case-based scenario, to provide verbal responses. If candidates have not used the maximum amount of time and wish to add to their response later during the interview, they will be allowed to do so. The virtual assessors will also serve as proctors to preserve the integrity of the PAI and provide fair and equitable conditions to all candidates.

22) A minimum of two (2) and maximum of three (3) Dietitians will evaluate candidate responses using a rubric for each question asked. Rubric scores range on a number scale of 0 to 3:

0 = Did not meet expectations; missing crucial elements.

1 = Broadly understands questions; able to answer basic questions.

2 = Understands the question and provides most of the key areas.

3 = Analyzes situation; thoroughly answers question.

Note: score descriptions vary slightly per question.

23) Practical upgrading is required in practice areas where the majority of PAI averaged response scores are below 2 on the rubric. The College will  provide help to candidates  to identify* partial practicums for practice areas that require upgrading. If the candidate scores below 2 in all practice areas, the college will recommend further dietetics education programs within Canada as complete independent practicum are not available in BC at this time.

*Ultimately, the College is not responsible to find placement for applicants. If there are no placements available or the applicant is refused, it is the applicant’s responsibility to meet the College requirement for registration and find a practicum.

24) Applicants may alternatively request an in person interview which will be accommodated based on staff and evaluator availability.

Self-Directed Learning (SDL) Plan

25) All candidates are required to create an SDL Plan that includes identified areas for study or review, resources and learning activities, and expected completion dates. The SDL Plan allows candidates to develop individualized upgrading plans based on Case Studies and PAI performance findings.

26) Candidates who require academic upgrading choose courses from the CDBC’s List of Approved Upgrading Courses only.

27) SDL Plans are submitted to the Registration Committee for approval before upgrading begins. At this time, the Registration Committee also determines practical upgrading requirements, if any, including number of hours per practice area.

Note: All upgrading must be completed in order to be eligible to apply for registration.

Applicants Who Do Not Meet the Minimum Requirements

28) Candidates who do not meet the minimum requirements in one or both parts of the Assessment for Substantial Equivalence process may:

1. successfully complete an approved Canadian dietetic program to be eligible to apply for CDBC registration;
2. re-attempt the CDBC Assessment for Substantial Equivalence provided they submit proof of academic and/or practical training that demonstrates substantial improvement in areas where significant competency gaps were identified; or
3. appeal the registration committee decision to the Health Profession Review Board

Authority

CDBC Bylaws sections 43, 45 and 49; Alliance’s CDRE Policies and Procedures, Policy 12.

Policy:

The Board, in accordance with the bylaws, approves examinations that qualify for registration. The Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE) is administered by the Alliance of Canadian Dietetic Regulatory Bodies. Successful completion is required to become fully registered with the CDBC.

The registration committee recognizes and accepts the Alliance Appeal Committee as the centralized decision-making authority for CDRE appeals.

The appeal decision is made by the Alliance CDRE Appeals Committee. The circumstances  supporting an appeal request are described in policy 12 of the Alliance:

Procedure:

• An appeal must:
  1. be received in writing within twenty (20) calendar days of the CDBC sending the examination results to the candidate,
  2. be in writing,
  3. name of the examination site (if applicable), and
  4. include details of the circumstances that initiated the appeal.
  5. A fee of $75.00 plus HST is charged for each appeal. The fee is charged by the provincial regulatory body where the candidate registered to take the exam.
• The CDBC acknowledges receipt of the appeal within five (5) business days, requesting more information if needed to clarify the circumstances.
• The appeal decision is made by the Alliance CDRE Appeals Committee
• Following the review of the appeal, the regulatory body will notify the candidate in writing of the Alliance CDRE Appeals Committee decision and the reason(s).
• The decision of the Alliance CDRE Appeals Committee shall be final.
• If the appeal is successful
  1. the candidate is permitted to re-take the exam at the next administration . Cost, if any, will be indicated by the Alliance Appeal Committee in the letter to the candidate.
  2. the examination that was appealed is not counted as a failed attempt.
  3. Restrictions, if any, on the registration of the candidate will be lifted.

• If the appeal is successful, the candidate must take the examination at the next scheduled administration.
• The results of the appeal will be reported to the Registration Committee.
• If the appeal is denied, the CDBC tracks the failed attempt of the candidate in their file.

Authority

HPA s.20(2), 39, 52; Bylaws s. 43, 45, 46, 49, 52 to 54, 58

Background:

In accordance with section 20 of the Health Professions Act, the Registration Committee must grant registration to every person who, in accordance with the bylaws,

1. applies for registration;
2. satisfies the Registration Committee that they are qualified to be a registrant; and
3. pays the required fees.

Registration is granted through Committee review and approval of a summary of the information submitted by the applicant, as compiled by the Registrar/Deputy Registrar.

In accordance with section 52 of the CDBC Bylaws, former full or non-practicing CDBC registrants whose registrations are not suspended or cancelled under section 39 of the Act, and who have been out of practice for less than three (3) years, may be restored to full registration status where the applicants provide proof of:

1. meeting the Continuing Competence Program required, as though the applicant had not ceased to be registered, as outlined in the Quality Assurance policy Qac-02: Continuing Competence Requirement for Reinstatement; and
2. completing the Jurisprudence Examination for Dietitians (JED) according to the CDBC assigned five (5) year cycle.

In accordance with section 53 of the CDBC Bylaws, former full or non-practicing CDBC registrants whose registrations are not suspended or cancelled under section 39 of the Act, and who have been out of practice for more than three (3) years but less than six (6) years after their last registration expired, may be restored to full registration status where the applicants successfully complete:

1. the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE), less than three (3) years prior to the date registration is granted; and
2. the JED, prior to registration being granted.

In accordance with sections 43(4), 46(3), and 54 of the CDBC Bylaws, former full or non-practicing CDBC registrants whose registrations are not suspended or cancelled under section 39 of the Act, and who have been out of practice for more than six (6) years after their last registrations expired, may be restored to full registration status where the applicants successfully complete:

1. all academic and/or practical training upgrading required by the Registration Committee, following assessment for currency in knowledge, skills, ability, and judgement to practice dietetics;
2. the CDRE, less than three (3) years prior to the date registration is granted; and
3. the JED, prior to reinstatement being granted.

As per section 45 of the CDBC Bylaws, Temporary Registrants may renew registration once only, for a period of up to one (1) year immediately following the period that the first temporary registration was granted. Registrants are granted temporary registration status for a maximum of up to two (2) registration cycles only (i.e., the initial registration cycle plus one registration renewal cycle).

Temporary registrants must write the CDRE at the first scheduled sitting following their registrations.

The following policy is intended to clarify the reinstatement requirements for former registrants depending upon their status at resignation and the amount of time elapsed since their last registrations expired.

Policy:

• All forms related to applications for reinstatement (Forms 6, 9, and 11) must be fully completed, including personal information and contact information for the public record.

Note: Name change documentation (such as an original, notarized, or photocopied marriage certificate) is required if an applicant’s name is different from the name on the applicant’s transcript or practical training documentation.

• Any former registrant seeking reinstatement must have resigned in good standing, at the time that their registration status expired is eligible to apply for reinstatement.
• Any former registrant seeking reinstatement must fulfill the authorization for the Criminal Records Check (CRC) requirement according to the CDBC’s assigned schedule.
• A former registrant seeking reinstatement who did not resign in good standing must demonstrate currency in dietetic knowledge, skills, abilities, and judgment by submitting the following requirements prior to applying for reinstatement:
  1. a current resume detailing any dietetic employment or education activities since the CDBC registration expired; and
  2. any outstanding Continuing Competence Program (CPP) requirements prior to registration expiry.

Former Full and Non-Practicing Registrants

Reinstatement within 3 years of registration expiry date

• A former full or non-practicing registrant who is applying for reinstatement must:
  1. submit a completed Application for Reinstatement Form (Form 9) within three (3) years of registration expiry date;
  2. submit a CRC Authorization;
  3. provide evidence of successfully meeting the CCP requirement for reinstatement in accordance with policy Qac-02: Continuing Competence Requirement for Reinstatement; and
  4. pay the Application for Reinstatement and CRC Authorization Fees.

Reinstatement after 3 years, but less than six years from registration expiry date

• A former or non-practicing registrant who is applying for reinstatement, with expired registration for more than three (3) years but less than six (6) years, must:
  1. submit a completed Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination Application Form (Form 11); and
  2. pay the current Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE) Application Fee.
• Once the CDRE is successfully completed less than three (3) years prior to the date registration is granted, this former registrant must:
  1. submit a completed Application for Reinstatement Form (Form 9);
  2. submit a CRC Authorization; and
  3. pay the Application for Reinstatement and CRC Fees.

Reinstatement after more than six years from registration expiry date

• A former or non-practicing registrant who is applying for reinstatement, with expired registration for more than six (6) years, must:
  1. submit a completed Application for Assessment for Registration Form (Form 6);
  2. be assessed by the Registration Committee for currency in dietetic skills, knowledge, abilities, and judgement. This assessment includes:
     1. the Knowledge Assessment Case Studies (KACS); and
     2. the Practical Assessment Interview (PAI)
  3. pay the KACS and PAI Fees; and
  4. successfully complete any academic and/or practical training upgrading as determined by the Registration Committee.

• The Registration Committee will determine that any required academic and/or practical training upgrading for currency has been met by:
  1. reviewing official transcripts and/or certificates of successfully completed course(s); and
  2. reviewing official attestation documents that verify practical upgrading practice requirements have been met.

Note: All official documents verifying completion of upgrading must be sent directly from the granting institutions and/or supervisors to the CBDC.

• All required upgrading for currency must be completed prior to applying for the CDRE and the JED.
• After successful completion of all required upgrading, such applicants must:
  1. submit a completed Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination Application Form (Form 11); and
  2. pay the CDRE Application Fee.
• Once the CDRE is successfully completed less than three (3) years prior to the date registration is granted, this former registrant must:
  1. submit a completed Application for Reinstatement Form (Form 9);
  2. submit a CRC Authorization; and
  3. pay the Application for Reinstatement and CRC Fees.

Labour Mobility

• Former or non-practicing registrants of the CDBC, who are registered with Dietetic Regulatory bodies in other Canadian jurisdictions, are eligible for reinstatement if there is evidence of:
  1. active registration, in good standing, with the other jurisdiction;
  2. resignation in good standing, at the time the registration expired; and
  3. successfully meeting the continuing competence requirements of the exporting jurisdiction.

Note: All documented evidence must be sent directly from the exporting jurisdiction to the CDBC.

• Such candidates for reinstatement must submit:
  1. a completed Application for Reinstatement Form (Form 9);
  2. submit a CRC Authorization; and
  3. the Application for Reinstatement and CRC Fees.

Former Temporary Registrants

Reinstatement immediately after initial temporary registration

• A former temporary registrant who resigned in good standing, within their initial registration year, is eligible to apply for reinstatement as a temporary registrant for the period immediately following their initial registration year only. This type of former temporary registrant must:
  1. submit a completed Application for Reinstatement Form (Form 9);
  2. submit a CRC Authorization; and
  3. pay the Application for Reinstatement and CRC fees.

Reinstatement after renewal of temporary registration

• A former temporary registrant who renewed their registration prior to resigning from the CDBC is not permitted to reinstate as a temporary registrant, but may be eligible to apply for reinstatement as a full registrant.

• Such applicants must be able to demonstrate successful completion of the CDRE less than three (3) years prior to the date registration is granted, and must:
  1. submit a completed Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination Application Form (Form 11); and
  2. pay the current CDRE Application Fee.

• Once the CDRE is successfully completed less than three (3) years prior to registration being granted, such applicants must:
  1. submit a completed Application for Reinstatement Form (Form 9);
  2. submit a CRC Authorization; and
  3. pay the Application for Reinstatement and CRC fees.

Reinstatement of former temporary registrants after more than three (3) years from registration expiry date

• A former temporary registrant seeking reinstatement after more than three (3) years from registration expiry date, must:
  1. submit a completed Application for Assessment for Registration Form (Form 6);
  2. be assessed by the Registration Committee for currency in dietetic skills, knowledge, abilities, and judgement. This assessment includes:
     1. the Knowledge Assessment Case Studies (KACS); and
     2. the Practical Assessment Interview (PAI);
  3. pay the KACS and PAI Fees; and
  4. successfully complete any academic and/or practical training upgrading as determined by the Registration Committee.

• The Registration Committee will determine that academic and/or practical training upgrading requirements for currency have been met by:
  1. reviewing official transcripts and/or certificates of successfully completed course(s); and
  2. reviewing official attestation documents verifying that practical upgrading practice requirements have been met.

Note: All Official documents verifying completion of upgrading must be sent directly from the granting institutions and/or supervisors to the CBDC.

• All required upgrading for currency must be completed prior to applying for the CDRE and the JED.
• After successful completion of all required upgrading, such applicants are eligible to apply for full registration status. This former registrant must:
  1. submit a completed Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination Application Form (Form 11); and
  2. pay the CDRE Application Fee.

• Once the CDRE is completed successfully, this former registrant must:
  1. submit a completed Application for Reinstatement Form (Form 9);
  2. submit a CRC Authorization; and
  3. pay the Application for Reinstatement and CRC Fees.

Authority: CDBC Bylaws, section 45.

Background:

The Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE) verifies that a Dietitian is competent to practice dietetics across Canada. Until the CDRE requirement is fulfilled, it is in the public’s interest for the CDBC to establish measures and conditions for Temporary Registrants to ensure dietetic care is delivered safely, ethically, and competently in all situations.

With this in mind, the CDBC will permit Temporary Registrants to work as sole practitioners under the mentorship of CDBC Full Registrants only. This mentorship requirement is intended to provide guidance, direction and support to Temporary Registrants until they are granted full registration status by the College.

Definitions:

• Sole and Private Practitioner: a registrant of the CDBC, working in any sector (i.e., private, public or not-for-profit sector), who is functioning independently, and in isolation, and without oversight by a CDBC Full Registrant.
• Private Sector: the segment of the economy that is run by individuals and companies, rather than government. Most private sector organizations are run with the intention of making profit.
• Public Sector: the segment of the economy under control of government.
• Not-For-Profit Sector: the segment of the economy that is run by charities and non-profit organizations.
  Note: Such organizations are more commonly considered part of the private sector.
• Mentorship: a process for the informal transmission of knowledge and the psychosocial support perceived by the recipient as relevant to work, career, or professional development. Mentoring entails informal communication, usually face-to-face and during a sustained period of time, between a person who is perceived to have greater relevant knowledge, wisdom, or experience and a person who is perceived to have less.
• Supervision: a situation in which a person’s practice is overseen by a Full Registrant; the scope, the nature and form of that supervision is to be applied in accordance with relevant policies, standards, or guidelines approved by the Board (per CDBC Bylaws: Definitions).

Policy:

• The CDBC will permit a Temporary Registrant to work as a sole and private practitioner under the mentorship of a CDBC Full Registrant only.
  1. Approval of mentorship is determined by CDBC staff.
  2. The CDBC’s Decision Map – Sole and Private Practitioner offers a series of pathways to help determine the Temporary Registrant’s need for mentorship and to identify appropriate sole and private practitioner situations (see Decision Map in the Sole and Private Practitioner Interpretive Guide).
  3. Mentorship is a tool that enhances dietetic knowledge, skills, abilities, and judgement, and is highly encouraged by the CDBC. Identifying that a mentor is not required should not preclude Temporary Registrants from seeking mentorship to strengthen dietetic practice.

• Mentorship and CDBC approval are not required when a private, public, or not-for-profit sector employer has an organizational structure in place where the Temporary Registrant is accountable to a Full Registrant of the CDBC.
• Acceptable mentorship for a sole and private practitioner occurs when the Temporary Registrant has a signed Mentorship Agreement for Private Practitioners (Appendix 1) between themself and a CDBC Full Registrant. This signed agreement must be approved by the CDBC prior to the start of the mentorship.
• The Mentor must be:
  1. a current Full Registrant of the CDBC, in good standing;
  2. actively working in a dietetics field that supports the Temporary Registrant’s intended practice area, as a sole and private practitioner;
  3. registered to practice the required Restricted Activities if the Temporary Registrant’s intended practice area includes enteral or parenteral nutrition support; and
  4. free from conflict of interest, including personal relationships and family.
• Mentorship must be in place for the entire duration that Temporary Registrant is working as a sole and private practitioner
• Under the Mentorship Agreement for Sole and Private Practitioners:
  1. Permission is granted by the CDBC, to a Temporary Registrant, after review and approval of a submitted Mentorship Agreement for Sole and Private Practitioners.
  2. A Temporary Registrant must not work as a sole and private practitioner until the CDBC has granted permission in writing.
  3. Mentorship must include regular communication (in-person, telephone, and/or or internet) between the CDBC Full Registrant and the Temporary Registrant.

• Communication between the Mentor and the Temporary Registrant may include, but is not limited to:
  1. reviewing dietetic practice, practice issues, and activities that the Temporary Registrant had undertaken since the last communication;
  2. discussing client charts; and
  3. reviewing and discussing client billing (if applicable).

• Communication between the Mentor and the Temporary Registrant should occur biweekly, at minimum; however, more frequent communication is highly encouraged in order to facilitate a meaningful mentorship experience.

• If the Temporary Registrant fails the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination, direct supervision will be required and the Mentorship Agreement for Sole and Private Practitioners will not be considered sufficient. Please refer to the policy Rc-20: Supervision After CDRE Failure.

Note: Please refer to the Sole and Private Practitioner Interpretive Guide for additional information for Temporary Registrants and Mentors.

Appendix 1

Mentorship Agreement for Sole and Private Practitioners

Purpose

The College of Dietitians of BC’s (CDBC’s) Mentorship Agreement for Sole and Private Practitioners establishes appropriate mentorship expectations between temporary registrants, who wish to pursue employment as sole and private practitioners, and full registrants of the CDBC.

Instructions:
1. Please complete Section 1 – Temporary Registrant and Section 2 – Dietitian Mentor.
2. Submit the completed agreement to the CDBC – info@collegeofdietitiansbc.org
3. The temporary registrant must not work as a sole and private practitioner until the CDBC has approved the agreement in writing.

Section 1 – Temporary Registrant:

Name: CDBC Registration #

Anticipated Dates for Mentorship: Start: End:

Primary area of sole and private practice:

Responsibilities of the Temporary Registrant

1. I am responsible for organizing my Mentorship Agreement for Sole and Private Practitioners.

2. My conduct as a sole and private practitioner is in accordance with the CDBC’s  Code of Ethics and  Standards of Practice.

3. I will provide the College with the name of a full registrant, working in a dietetics practice area that supports my work as a sole and private practitioner, who has agreed to mentor me.

4. I shall initiate a first meeting with my Dietitian Mentor to set mentorship expectations. At minimum, the mentorship expectations will include:
a. regular, biweekly contact with the CDBC full registrant
i. this may be increased at the discretion of the mentor
b. orientation to any applicable legislation, policies and procedures relevant to working as a sole and private practitioner (e.g. Personal Information Protection Act).
c. discussion of practice issues and challenges, such as:
i. Client charting;
ii. Record keeping;
iii. Billing;
iv. Patient relations;
v. Evidence based decision making.

5. I will seek the advice from my Dietitian Mentor biweekly and as necessary and will follow her/his direction.

6. I will co-operate with my Dietitian Mentor and provide her/him with access to all billings that I render, if applicable, and I agree to review the billing for the services I provide.

7. If for any reason my Dietitian Mentor is not able to provide mentorship, I will notify the College immediately and provide the name of another CDBC full registrant who is willing to mentor me.

8. In the event that my dietitian mentor is away on vacation, because of illness, or for any other reason, for a period greater than three weeks, I will ensure that another full registrant of the College is available, in my mentor’s place, to carry out the terms of this agreement. I will first obtain approval from the CDBC for another full registrant of the College to act as a mentor.

9. I am aware that this mentorship agreement must be in place until I am granted full registration by the CDBC, or I am no longer working as a sole and private practitioner.

10. I will register for the first available Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination after being granted registration with the CDBC.

11. I understand my responsibilities as the temporary registrant in this agreement.

Signature: Date:
Section 2 – Dietitian Mentor:
Name: CDBC Registration #
Primary area of private practice:

Responsibilities of the Dietitian Mentor

1. I will mentor the temporary registrant listed above in accordance with the CDBC’s  Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

2. I will ensure that I will have proper liability insurance in place when the mentorship is to be provided outside of my work responsibilities.

3. I will notify the College immediately if the temporary registrant is not compliant with the mentorship requirements or any other conditions on her/his practice permit.

4. Before the temporary registrant begins work as a sole and private practitioner, I will orient her/him to any applicable legislation, policies and/or procedures relevant to working as a sole and private practitioner (e.g. Personal Information Protection Act).

5. I will discuss and advise her/him regarding relevant practice issues, client relations, proper charting and record keeping, billing, evidence based decision making, etc., in accordance with the CDBC’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

6. I will connect with the temporary registrant (frequency) . When I am not physically present, I will be available for consultation and advice via telephone or internet.

7. I will provide reasonable notification to the temporary registrant if I am away on vacation, because of illness, or for any other reason, for a period of greater than three weeks.

8. In the event that I have concerns regarding the temporary registrant’s competency to practice dietetics in any respect, I will report my concerns immediately to the CDBC.

9. I understand the responsibilities of the Dietitian Mentor in this agreement.

Signature: Date:
CDBC use only:
Approved by:

Authority: CDBC Bylaws, section 45.

Background:

In accordance with section 45 of the CDBC Bylaws, the College grants Temporary Registration to applicants for a period of up to one (1) year (renewable once) who have not met full registration examination requirements but who:

1. have proven to the satisfaction of the Registration Committee that they can be reasonably expected to successfully complete the Canadian Dietetic Registration Examination (CDRE) and the Jurisprudence Examination;
2. in the opinion of the Registration Committee, may practice without any risk to public health; and
3. meet all other registration requirements.

The CDRE verifies that a Dietitian is competent to practice dietetics across Canada. Temporary Registrants of the CDBC must write, and obtain a passing score on, the CDRE at the first scheduled sitting following their registration, in order to satisfy the College that they fulfill all of the qualifications for Full Registration.

A Temporary Registrant who fails the first official CDRE attempt may practice only under direct supervision by a Full Registrant, unless otherwise specified by the Registration Committee.  The intent of the supervision is to provide direct oversight of the overall performance and dietetic activities of the registrant.

Policy:

1) The CDBC will inform Temporary Registrants who failed the exam, in writing, as soon as CDRE results are available.

2) The CDBC will permit a Temporary Registrant who has failed the CDRE to practice under the direct supervision of a CDBC Full Registrant only.
  a) Permission to resume practice is granted to a Temporary Registrant, by the CDBC, after review and approval of a submitted Supervision Agreement for        Dietetic Experience Form (see Appendix 1). Note: Approval of supervision is determined by CDBC staff.
  b) A Temporary Registrant must not resume practice until the CDBC has:
    i) approved the Supervision Agreement for Dietetic Experience Form, and
    ii) granted permission in writing.

3) The Temporary Registrant must have a signed Supervision Agreement for Dietetic Experience between themself and a CDBC Full Registrant. Note: It is the Temporary Registrant’s responsibility to ensure that an appropriate supervision agreement is in place and areas identified for improvement as noted in their CDRE performance report are shared with their supervisor.

4) The supervisor must be:
  a) a current Full Registrant of the CDBC in good standing;
  b) actively working in the Temporary Registrant’s area of practice;
  c) available for daily in-person or virtual oversight and evaluation and for the Temporary Registrant to consult and/or collaborate with as needed;
  d) registered to practice restricted activities if the Temporary Registrant’s practice area includes enteral or parenteral nutrition support;
  e) willing and able to evaluate the Temporary Registrant as performing dietetic activities independently, legally, safely, and competently to the level expected of  an entry-level Dietitian, who poses no risk of harm to the public; and
  f) free of any conflict of interest regarding the Temporary Registrant, including personal relationships such as friendships or family.

5) The Temporary Registrant is supervised according to the:
  a) Integrated Competencies for Dietetic Education and Practice;
  b )CDBC Code of Ethics; and
  c) CDBC Standards of Practice.

6)Direct supervision must be in place until the Temporary Registrant successfully completes the CDRE.

Authority

Health Professions Act, sections 20(2), 39, and 52; CDBC Bylaws, section 43.

Purpose

The following policy is intended to clarify the period for which applications for registration may be considered open and active by the CDBC. This is to ensure the College makes decisions based on current and accurate information and mitigates related risks, in the public interest.

Background

The processes by which applications for registration are completed are outlined in policies Rc-02 – Full Registration and Rc-04 – Temporary Registration.

Internationally educated applicants must apply for an Assessment for Registration, prior to being eligible to apply for registration with the CDBC. This assessment considers whether the applicant’s knowledge, skills, abilities and judgment are substantially equivalent to the standards of academic or technical achievement and the competencies (per CDBC bylaws section 43(3)). The processes by which applications for Assessment for Registration are completed are outlined in policy Rc-03 – Full Registration Substantial Equivalence.

Policy

1) All applications to the CDBC are created and submitted via the CDBC’s online platform.

2) All applications are closed after six (6) months of inactivity, immediately following the date of last documented correspondence.

3) Once an application is received, and the CDBC determines that additional information and/or fee payment is needed to fulfill application requirements, the applicant must submit this information and/or fee within the six-month time frame.
a) CDBC staff will notify the applicant, in writing, of the required information and/or fee, and the deadline for submission.
b) CDBC staff will consider a written request, by the applicant, to extend the deadline for submitting the required information.

4) If the applicant fails to contact the CDBC:
a) the CDBC will attempt to notify the applicant, in writing, of the impending closure; and
b) the application will be closed according the established timeline.

5) Closed applications will be handled and stored according the CDBC’s Record Retention and Destruction policy.

6) Once the application is closed, candidates who wish to reapply to the CDBC, must submit a new application, including fees, according to the bylaws in-force, at the time that the new application is submitted. Prior assessments and decisions will still be considered in any new application, as will any relevant information related to the requirements set out in CDBC bylaws section 43.

Restricted Activities Interpretive Guide