The integration of research in pratice with the dieticians of New Brunswick

In New Brunswick, we have very little information that describes practice-based research in dietetics. To encourage and promote research in this province, it is crucial to describe the place that research has in dietetic practice and determine the number of dietitians in New Brunswick that received an education in research methodology. A validated questionnaire was distributed to all the members of the New Brunswick Association of Dietitians; 76% of the members filled out the questionnaire. For 85%, of them, their highest level of education is the internship; 15% have a postgraduate degree, and 55% have completed a research methodology course. The dietitians having completed graduate studies perceived fewer barriers to the integration of practice-based research. The barrier that 81% of the dietitians in the province agreed was most influential in discouraging the implementation of research to daily practice was the time allowed for research at work. Nearly two-thirds (63%) agreed that it is very improbable that they will pursue graduate studies. The probability of pursuing graduate studies decreased with the age of the dietitians: 85% agreed that "family and personal obligations" and "lack of time" were the most important barriers in pursuing graduate studies. The attitude of New Brunswick dietitians towards research was nonetheless positive.