(P42-19-26) A Convergent Parallel Mixed Methods Protocol: Fostering Soldier Trust in Registered Dietitians through Military Cultural Competence

Objectives: Identifying factors that build soldier trust in Registered Dietitians (RDs) is critical, as higher trust may enhance adherence to nutrition recommendations and subsequent military readiness and career longevity for the ~440,000 soldiers projected to have access to RDs by 2027. While provider competence, caring, and communication are known to build civilian patient trust, it is unknown if these factors influence soldier trust in RDs. To fill this gap, this study aims to develop an Army-specific conceptual model of soldier trust in RDs.

Methods: This study will use a convergent parallel mixed methods design. Participants will be active duty U.S. Army soldiers, ≥ 18 years of age, assigned to combat arms units with on-site, direct access to RDs since 2020. Participants will complete the Perceived Cultural Competency Scale and the Health Care Relationship Trust Scale-Revised online via Qualtrics. Survey data will be analyzed with descriptive statistics, correlation to assess the relationship between trust and military cultural competence, and ANOVA to assess group differences in scores based on demographic data and types of RD interactions. Surveys will be analyzed following survey closure, concurrent with qualitative analysis. Participants can opt into semi-structured interviews which will explore the factors that build or undermine Soldier trust in RDs. The interview guide will be iteratively refined to explore emergent concepts identified during ongoing analysis. Interview data will be analyzed using the Framework Method. Survey and interview findings will be integrated with a convergent approach to create an Army-specific conceptual model of soldier trust in RDs.

Results: N/A

Conclusions: This model will be poised to enhance clinical practice by helping RDs build trust with soldiers more effectively, leading to better treatment adherence, health outcomes, and tactical performance.

Funding Sources: The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation and The Oklahoma State University Foundation