The Role of Nutritionists in Primary Health Care: A Case of Narok County Referral Hospital in Narok County

Abstract

The study identifies the perception of users in devolved in primary Health care (PHC) with regards to the role of nutritionists. This study also aims at acknowledging the importance of the nutritionist’s work for their health, and verifies their expectations in relation to it. Methods: Semi-structured individual interviews were applied to users of Primary Health Care, under follow up or otherwise with the unit nutritionist. The interviews were transcribed and submitted to a discursive textual analysis. Results: The nutritionist was correctly associated to food, feeding and nutrition, although the boundaries of their function are subtle, suggesting a weak professional identity. The work developed has always been positively evaluated and recognized as important for the users’ health. The expectations related to the practice point to the need of humanized and integral care, including more actions for the collectivity – community and team work – in accordance with present health policies. Conclusions: To meet expectations and advance in the professionalization process it is necessary to listen and fulfill the demands, as well as assess the education process and daily practice, taking into account the new paradigms of primary care and health promotion.