Dr. Iñaki Elío, current secretary of the Professional Association of Dietitians-Nutritionists of Cantabria (CODINUCAN) and director of the degree programme in Human Nutrition and Dietetics (NHD) at the Universidad Europea del Atlantico (European University of the Atlantic, UNEATLANTICO), gave a talk to UNEATLANTICO students to raise awareness of the work of the Association.
During his presentation, Elío explained to final-year students the origins and objectives of CODINUCAN, an institution created in 2015 with the aim of promoting the professional development of nutrition in the Cantabrian region. He explained that the Association is not only responsible for ensuring the correct practice of nutrition and dietetics from a comprehensive health approach, but also for regulating professional practice according to ethical and deontological principles.
Dr Elío pointed out that CODINUCAN works together with public bodies to strengthen the role of dietitians and nutritionists within the health system, seeking to guarantee adequate care in matters of food and nutrition. However, he emphasised that its main mission is to support professionals in the sector, promoting their development and ensuring the recognition and value of their work in all areas of care.
Among the benefits of membership, he highlighted the importance of belonging to an entity that officially represents the profession and protects both professionals and citizens, in defence of the public interest and health.
He also mentioned a number of additional advantages for members, such as access to up-to-date information on employment and training, professional advice, inclusion in official registers, the possibility of collaborating with private entities, authorised use of the professional Dietitian-Nutritionist trademark, and civil liability insurance included through AMA Seguros.
Finally, Dr Elío encouraged future graduates to become actively involved in the Governing Board of the Association in order to continue strengthening the profession in Cantabria.