MDH Updates Qualifications for Food and Nutrition Services Director

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has reversed guidance it previously issued relating to care center Directors of Food and Nutrition Services. 

Under F801 (§483.60(a)(2)), if a qualified dietitian or other clinically qualified nutrition professional is not employed full-time, the facility must designate a person to serve as the director of food and nutrition services who — among other qualifications – is: (A) A certified dietary manager; or (B) A certified food service manager; or (C) Has similar national certification for food service management and safety from a national certifying body; or D) Has an associate’s or higher degree in food service management or in hospitality, if the course study includes food service or restaurant management, from an accredited institution of higher learning. 

MDH previously issued guidance that a Certified Professional – Food Safety, through the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA), would satisfy the option that allows for a national certification for food service management and safety from a national certifying body. 

After further review of the course, and consultation with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), MDH has now informed us that the course does not meet the federal requirement. Care centers should not invest in certifying staff through this program, if the goal is to achieve compliance with F801.

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