Illinois Academy Delegates Corner

The House of Delegates (HOD) serves as a voice of Academy members and identifies and develops solutions to some of the challenges facing the profession (critical issues). 

You have a voice in the Academy. Delegates are a key connection to the Academy's constituency. The House of Delegates supports and encourages proactive communication and continually seeks member input on issues affecting the profession. The work of the association relies on the contributions of members like you. Volunteer leaders are the mainstay of the organization.

April Updates

Insights from March HOD Discussions
Posted by the Delegates of the Illinois Academy of Nutrition

Summary of Barriers and Facilitators to Implementing Evidence-Based Guidelines (EBGs)
During our recent breakout sessions at the March House of Delegates (HOD) discussions, we identified key barriers and facilitators to the effective implementation of Evidence-Based Guidelines (EBGs). Here are the top insights:

Top 3 Barriers:

  1. Complex Language and Terminology
    • The use of technical language limits the accessibility and effectiveness of EBGs, making it challenging for practitioners to understand and apply them.
  2. Overwhelming Volume of Information
    • Excessive detail and poor organization within guidelines can make them difficult to navigate and apply in practice.
  3. Resistance to Change
    • Leaders and colleagues often resist adopting new practices, creating cultural and operational challenges that hinder the implementation of EBGs.

Top 3 Facilitators:

  1. Supportive Administrative Staff
    • Physician and provider champions play a crucial role in driving the adoption of EBGs, providing the necessary support and encouragement.
  2. Concise, Accessible Resources
    • Simplified summaries, infographics, and cheat sheets make guidelines easier to understand and apply, enhancing their effectiveness.
  3. Webinars & Training Opportunities
    • Offering training sessions helps practitioners learn how to implement EBGs effectively, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

Please take a few minutes to answer our brief survey on this important topic!  https://forms.office.com/r/Jn2Xp0aAJJ

We invite all members to engage with this post, share their thoughts, and contribute to the ongoing discussion on improving the implementation of EBGs. Together, we can drive positive change in our practices and enhance patient care.

There are 4 Action Alerts right now. Please take 5 minutes to complete if you have not already:
  1. Protect Medicare Patients Access to MNT
  2. Urge Congress to Avoid the Impact of a Federal Shutdown, Extend Critical Waivers and Protect Nutrition Programs.
  3. Support Nutrition Research and Protect Public Health
  4. Tell Congress to oppose changes to SNAP and School Lunch Programs

Meet Our Delegates

For questions or concerns contact our Delegates at [email protected]

South Delegate

Connie Cranford, MS, RD, LDN

 

North Delegate

Val Chudzinski, MA, RD, LDN, CNSC 

Updated February 2025