The role and identity of physician nutrition specialists in medical school-affiliated hospitals

This document was prepared by the Committee on Clinical Practice Issues in Health and Disease of The American Society for Clinical Nutrition (ASCN). The committee recommends that each major medical center has at least one physician nutrition specialist (PNS) who will be a regional resource for complex nutrition cases and will have a leadership role in the provision of coordinated nutrition services. The PNS will be responsible for nutrition education programs in associated schools of medicine and will be a role model for aspiring physicians. Typically, these individuals will have thorough training in human nutrition research. The PNS should be supported by a unique combination of resources including clinical earnings, teaching hospital and school of medicine salaries, state and federal funds, as well as private sector support. The ASCN should take a leadership role in developing the national identity of the PNS and in achieving recognition of board certification in nutrition.