Job Description

Summary/Objectives of Position

The Nutritionist/Dietitian coordinates diabetes and health education services for individuals receiving services from the Bakersfield American Indian Health Project (BAIHP). Working and guiding patients in advising and educating them on nutrition plans. Services and education take place at the BAIHP’s locations, associated clinics, or outreach sites including client's homes. This position leads group and individual nutrition counseling sessions along with garden activities. The Nutrition/Dietitian is responsible for the case management of diabetic patients following the Indian Health Service Diabetes Standards of Care and the required Diabetes Care Audit. The Nutritionist/Dietitian is part of a multi-disciplinary team working to establish services that enhance the health and well-being of BAIHP patients while developing their self-monitoring and healthier behaviors.

Essential Duties, Functions & Responsibilities

• Responsible for identifying individual and community diabetic health education needs and implementing a strategy to address those needs one-on-one or in group education events.
• Support aspects of an urban garden project, overseeing all garden activities related to healthy eating.
• Responsible for conducting individual one-on-one health sessions on dietary issues and healthy eating habits. This can include sessions on nutrition, healthy gardening, breastfeeding, or other health topics.
• Responsible for developing healthy eating plans with patients, monitoring behavior modification, and providing regular follow-up. Support client successes and provide ongoing support and encouragement on setbacks.
• Provide case management of diabetes patients according to urban Government Performance and Results Act (GPRA) indicators and Indian Health Service diabetes audit indicators to ensure each client receives the standard screenings, evaluations, and follow-up.
• Ensures the successful implementation of the activities and services of the Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI) program and assists in the delivery of Health Promotion/Disease Prevention activities.
• Submits monthly activity reports to the medical team, annual diabetes care audits, semi-annual grant progress reports, senior management, and the Chief Executive Officer.
• Responsible for working with the Cultural Coordinator(s) to meet grant program goals and objectives associated with the BAIHP garden program.
• Develop and coordinate all outreach components along with activities of the Diabetes Prevention and Risk Reduction/Maintenance Program.
• Participate in the quality improvement committee meetings and work with other department supervisors to ensure health promotion and prevention focus is included in all BAIHP programs and services.
• Coordinate with in-house service providers to develop, implement, and monitor an individual care plan for each patient.
• Collaborate with BAIHP staff to assist in the writing, research, and preparation of proposals for grant applications or renewals.

Minimum Mandatory Qualifications

Education: 

• Bachelor’s degree in dietetics, nursing, nutrition, or a related field.

Experience: 

• 2 years prior experience working with patients regarding dietary needs and restrictions.
• Possess garden or horticulture experience preferred.

License/Certification: 

• Certified Diabetes Educator Certificate or willingness to become certified within two years. 
• A registered Dietitian license or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist is preferred.

Skills: 

• Knowledge of diabetes and diabetic diets, medications, and self-management techniques.
• Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to work productively and make independent decisions.

Communication Skills:

• Demonstrates proficiency in communication and writing skills.
• Language Skills: Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general and professional documents. 
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. 

Interpersonal Skills:

• Ability to foster teamwork; train and direct the work of team members and colleagues.

Technology

• Familiar with electronic healthcare records systems. 
• Proficiency with using computer-based applications (e.g. Microsoft Office) and clinical information management systems.

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