Red Deer Regional Dietetic Services Program.

The Regional Dietetic Services Program coordinated by the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre is described. The Program became a reality in June 1978, in response to requests for professional dietetic assistance from the rural hospitals located in Central Alberta. The program objectives were defined, standards were determined, duties and responsibilities of Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre (the 'Agency') and the 'User' hospital were clarified, and a yearly contract was established. The dietetic consulting program was then presented to interested rural administrators and board members. When the first commitment was received, the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre hired a part-time dietitian to implement the program. As a spin-off benefit, this program provided an avenue through which a dietitian could participate part-time in the professional and contribute to the community in a rewarding way.