Leading dieticians across Nigeria have raised concerns over their consistent exclusion from critical decision-making processes within the healthcare system, warning that this marginalization is negatively impacting the quality of care provided to patients. Speaking at recent health sector engagements, these nutrition experts stressed that their involvement is essential for developing comprehensive treatment plans, particularly for patients with chronic illnesses and malnutrition.
Dieticians explained that their specialized knowledge in nutrition plays a vital role in patient recovery and long-term health outcomes, especially in managing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. However, they lamented that their absence from policy formulation and hospital management committees limits the integration of nutritional care into broader health strategies, thereby undermining patient welfare.
The professionals highlighted that effective collaboration between dieticians, doctors, and other healthcare workers is crucial for delivering holistic care. They pointed out that neglecting the nutritional aspect of treatment often leads to prolonged hospital stays, increased complications, and higher healthcare costs.
In light of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery and meet Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being, dieticians are calling for greater recognition and inclusion in policy discussions. They urged government agencies, health institutions, and regulatory bodies to formally incorporate dieticians into decision-making platforms to enhance patient outcomes and promote preventive healthcare through proper nutrition.
As Nigeria continues to face a rising burden of non-communicable diseases, the dieticians’ appeal underscores the urgent need for integrated healthcare approaches that prioritize nutrition as a fundamental component of patient care.