Authors

  1. Winham, Donna M. DrPH, MCHES
  2. Wooden, Alissa A. MS, RDN
  3. Hutchins, Andrea M. PhD, RD
  4. Morse, Lisa M. MS, RD
  5. Shepard, Christina M. MS, RD
  6. Mayol-Kreiser, Sandra PhD, RD
  7. Hampl, Jeffrey PhD, MMC, RD

Abstract

Attitudes and perceptions on the role of preceptors in dietetic internships were assessed by an online survey among 552 registered dietitians and other nutrition professionals. Significant differences were observed in the scores concerning the value of the preceptor role, institutional support for precepting, and benefits of interns by preceptor experience categories. More nonpreceptors wanted input on selection and scheduling interns, preceptor training, and access to an "on-call" preceptor specialist than current or former preceptors. Continuing professional education units were more popular than financial compensation as an incentive for supervising interns. Addressing these concerns may encourage greater dietetic internship preceptor participation.