The Role of Nutrition in Primary Health Care (PHC)

As a health physician, you may address many concerns, including the diets of children and adults. Appointments are short, so paying attention to signs your patients could use nutritional help is crucial.

While you won’t know everything about healthy eating, you can guide those seeking care and refer them to specialists when necessary. Increasing the role of nutrition in primary health care (PHC) may create a more well-rounded experience.

Integrating Nutrition into Primary Care

Everyone should eat a well-balanced diet and exercise regularly to maintain optimal health. As straightforward as that seems, many people don’t know where to start. That’s where primary care may come into play.

While prescribing medications is beneficial, they aren’t the only option for many conditions. Lifestyle changes can also play a large role in managing these concerns.

With dietitians and nutritionists, what does a primary care doctor have to do with eating well? It turns out a lot.

PCPs Are the Key

You are the main point of contact for your patients’ needs. You have a broad overview of their health, which may provide greater insight into their dietary concerns. That means you can provide advice about diet, exercise and lifestyle choices.

There are two main reasons why patients could benefit from nutritional education:

1. Nutrition literacy: Many people aren’t familiar with much health education, including nutritional guidelines. They may also be misinformed by fad diets, friends, family or social media. The information overload causes confusion or inaction, but a PCP can correct it.
2. Cost or other barriers: Depending on economic status, stigma or other barriers, some people hesitate to seek help from specialists. PCPs can get the ball rolling by acting as a knowledge portal. You may educate, counsel and refer patients to other departments when necessary.

When patients need something, you’re the first person they look toward. Offering nutrition in primary care may help people find the resources they need to thrive.

What You Can Do: Nutritional Guidance

Even though you’re not a nutritionist or dietitian, you can still advise those who enter your office. During the wellness exam, check for common indicators of dietary deficiencies—skin, nails, weight, energy and digestion issues.

Other ways to start the conversation include:

• Setting reasonable goals: Consult with your patient to discover goals that fit their lifestyle and needs. Whether they feel fatigued or have diabetes, you can suggest realistically achievable goals.
• Explaining a balanced diet: Many people are unfamiliar with the basics of a “balanced diet.” PCPs may start by explaining what this entails—from fruit and vegetable intake to proteins, whole grains, dairy and fats. When discussing food, consider dietary restrictions, cultural preferences, allergies and chronic conditions. You can also refer them to resources like MyPlate.
• Addressing barriers: Aim to meet people where they are, no matter what that looks like. People have a lot going on behind the scenes you may not know about. Make suggestions that fit their needs, from a preference for convenience to budget concerns.

Everyone has a unique background, so there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition in primary health care. However, showing patients you are ready to help them make healthier food choices may be the push they need.

How Continuing Medical Education (CME) Can Help

CME is pivotal in bringing nutrition to the forefront of PCPs’ busy workdays. Knowing the latest dietary guidelines, communication methods and treatments may help you provide better care.

Whether you want to network with other professionals at in-person seminars or watch from home, high-quality CME can help you grow.