Abstract
The dietetics' profession has been exploring advanced practice for over 35 years and specialty practice for over 50 years. This article describes the issues as perceived 20 years ago to provide a historical perspective. While the profession has had advances in specialty certification and some elements of advanced practice, the breadth or narrowness of specialties and recognition of advanced practice are still under debate. Knowledge of nutrition science, complexity of decision making, and application of research continue to represent some differences between entry and advanced practice.