Objective: Prevalence of obesity and related diseases
has increased in Ghana. Dietitians have essential skills
to prevent and manage dietary diseases. However, little
is known about dietetic practice in Ghana. This paper
describes the history and current state of dietetics practice
in Ghana.
Methods: A questionnaire was administered to 13 dietitians
and six dietetic interns in February 2012. The
questionnaire collected data on perceptions about dietetics
practice, career progression, and challenges in
dietetics practice in Ghana. Key informant interviews
(KII) on history of dietetics in Ghana were also held
with four retired dietitians, and two dietetics educators.
Additional KII were conducted with the Chief dietitian,
two officers of the Ghana Dietetic Association, and
three other dietitians. Most KII were conducted faceto-face
but a few were only possible via telephone.
Some of the KII were audio-recorded, in addition to
handwritten notes. Following transcription of audiorecorded
interviews, all data were subjected to content
analysis.
Results: Dietetic practice in Ghana has evolved from
low-skilled cadre (catering officers) offering hospitalbased
meal services to the current era of available
trained dietitians providing diet therapy in diverse settings.
However, 80% of the 35 dietitians identified are
working in Accra. In three regions of Ghana, there are
no dietitians. There remain limited opportunities for
continuous learning and professional career advancement.
Additionally, there are many unqualified dietitians
in practice.
Conclusion: A huge unmet need for dietitians exists in
all regions of Ghana, except Greater Accra. Bridging
this gap is essential to increase access to dietetic care
throughout Ghana