Licensure is based on where the care is being received.
A dietetics/nutrition provider, regardless of where they are physically located, is required to be licensed by this Board if they are providing medical nutrition therapy to a patient or client who is physically in North Carolina, unless the provider is otherwise exempt. Common exemptions are for state or federal employees, healthcare providers licensed under Chapter 90, or students who are under direct supervision. For a full list of exemptions, please refer to N.C.G.S. § 90-368.
There is no current reciprocity or compact agreement in place. For more information on future compact agreements, please refer to the Dietitians Compact site, maintained by the Council of State Governments.
To provide dietetics/nutrition care via telehealth, all licensees are advised to:
- Ensure telehealth is appropriate for the individual receiving the services;
- Ensure telehealth can provide the level of care that is required for that individual;
- Ensure telehealth is provided utilizing HIPAA compliant technology; and
- Ensure their professional liability insurance covers telehealth, if applicable.
To review levels of care that may not require a license, such as health and wellness coaching, please see Guideline A for unlicensed persons who are not otherwise exempt.
Effective January 1, 2023, any person, whether residing in this State or not, who by use of electronic or other medium performs any of the acts described as the practice of medical nutrition therapy with a client or patient located in this State, but is not licensed pursuant to Article 25 of Chapter 90 of the General Statutes shall be deemed by the Board as being engaged in the practice of medical nutrition therapy and subject to the enforcement provisions available to the Board. Among other remedies, the Board shall report violations of this Rule to any occupational licensing board having issued an occupational license to a person who violates this Rule. This Rule does not apply to persons licensed pursuant to, or exempt from licensure pursuant to, Article 25 of G.S. 90.
It is clear that this emerging form of healthcare will continue to grow and will provide access to nutrition services to many who might not otherwise be able to access such services. As a licensee, it is important that you maintain awareness of this form of practice, and if you choose to provide it, ensure that you are in compliance with all laws and regulations of each state in which you choose to provide nutrition services.
Additional information addressing Telehealth from the Commission on Dietetic Registration is available here.