Advocating for equitable nutrition access
April 2, 2024
Policy Director Greta Allen with Michelle Harris, Nutrition Director for Adams County’s Health Department, who was her dietetic internship director from 2016 - 2017
Colorado remains one of only four states that does not license or certify registered dietitians (RDs), creating deep inequities in access to critical nutrition care.
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is an evidence-based service that helps manage and treat medical conditions. Yet, without a licensure framework, RDs face barriers to practicing at the top of their scope; hospitals are unable to fully utilize their expertise; and patients, especially those on Medicaid, are left vulnerable to misinformation and unqualified nutrition guidance.
This state legislative session, the Colorado Blueprint to End Hunger has been co-leading on HB25-1220: Regulation of Medical Nutrition Therapy, alongside the Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This bipartisan bill is a step toward nutrition justice.
It ensures that all Coloradans, regardless of income or insurance status, can access MNT from qualified professionals. It also positions Colorado to join the Dietitian Licensure Compact, increasing access to MNT providers across state lines – an especially important step for rural and border communities.
Importantly, this legislation does not take away the ability of personal trainers, health coaches, or other wellness professionals to offer general nutrition advice. Instead, it focuses on regulating MNT, a specialized service that carries significant risks if provided by unqualified individuals. It also does not impose new burdens on hospitals or healthcare facilities but instead gives them the flexibility to use dietitians more effectively to improve patient outcomes.
Expanding access to MNT is a critical step toward a more equitable, just, and inclusive healthcare system. Now is the time to support this bill and make nutrition justice a reality in Colorado.
By Greta Allen, registered dietitian and policy director for the Colorado Blueprint to End Hunger