Bariatric Nutritionist (Registered Dietitian)

Job Summary:

The Bariatric Nutritionist (Registered Dietitian) is an integral member of the multidisciplinary care team, responsible for providing comprehensive medical nutrition therapy, education, and counseling to patients seeking or who have undergone bariatric surgery. The primary goal is to optimize patient health, facilitate successful weight loss outcomes, and promote long-term, sustainable lifestyle changes. The nutritionist will also serve as the bariatric program coordinator The program coordinator will play a critical role in coordinating the clinical and administrative aspects of the Bariatric Program to ensure adherence to all standards. They will serve as a liaison between the program and MBSAQIP and ensure preparedness for all site visits. This individual will work closely with the Bariatric team to develop, implement, and review clinical guidelines and policies related to Bariatric procedures. The Program Coordinator is responsible for collaborating with the quality team on data collection, ensuring accurate documentation for the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) data registry.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Conduct comprehensive pre- and post-operative nutritional assessments, including diet history, supplement use, physical activity, and readiness for change.

Develop and monitor individualized nutrition care plans tailored to patient needs and specific bariatric procedures.

Provide patient education and counseling through one-on-one sessions and group classes on pre- and post-operative diet phases, portion control, and prevention of complications.

Recommend and manage vitamin and mineral supplementation protocols; collaborate with physicians to review laboratory results and adjust plans as needed. Participate in multidisciplinary rounds, case conferences, and quality improvement initiatives to ensure coordinated patient care.

Maintain accurate, timely documentation of assessments, interventions, and patient progress in the EHR according to clinical and insurance standards.

Organize, facilitate, and document monthly support groups for pre- and post-operative patients.

Contribute to the development of educational materials, clinical protocols, and program resources for the bariatric service line.

Ensure compliance with MBSAQIP accreditation requirements and other regulatory standards.

Serve as the MBS Program Coordinator: Coordinate, administer, and participate in required program and accreditation meetings, including the annual comprehensive review.

- Assist in program development and continuous improvement initiatives.

- Manage accreditation activities, site visits, and documentation to maintain program status.

- Monitor ongoing compliance with MBSAQIP standards, including pathways, protocols, patient education materials, outcomes tracking, staff education, and quality improvement initiatives.

Performs all duties as assigned or requested.

Requirements:

High School Diploma or GED Required. Bachelor's Degree, preferred.

Minimum of 3 years prior experience working with surgical weight loss patients required.

Current state licensure/certification to practice as a Dietitian/Nutritionist in Rhode Island (or ability to obtain).

Current Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) certification from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). Certification in Bariatric Nutrition or Obesity Management (e.g., CDR's Certificate of Advanced Practice in Obesity Weight Management) is preferred.

Care New England Health System (CNE) and its member institutions, Butler Hospital, Women & Infants Hospital, Kent Hospital, VNA of Care New England, Integra, The Providence Center, and Care New England Medical Group, and our Wellness Center, are trusted organizations fueling the latest advances in medical research, attracting top specialty-trained doctors, and honing renowned services and innovative programs to engage in the important discussions people need to have about their health.

Americans with Disability Act Statement: External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who become disabled must be able to perform the essential job-specific functions either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation, to be determined by the organization on a case-by-case basis.

EEOC Statement: Care New England is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status

Ethics Statement: Employee conducts himself/herself consistent with the ethical standards of the organization including, but not limited to hospital policy, mission, vision, and values.