How the Coeliac Dietitians Network professionalises knowledge sharing via Doctolib
“You no longer have to do it alone”
Dietitians working with people with celiac disease operate in a specialized domain where up-to-date knowledge and mutual alignment are crucial. The Celiac Disease Dietitians Network (CDN), in collaboration with the Dutch Celiac Association (NCV), therefore looked for a better way to pool expertise. They found it in Doctolib.
From Facebook to a professional environment
“Our network includes about 120 dietitians from all over the country, all specialized in the gluten-free diet,” says the NCV. “We meet a few times a year, but in practice, you often have a need to consult quickly.”
For a long time, this need was addressed via a private Facebook group. “That wasn’t ideal,” says the NCV. “Not everyone is on Facebook, it’s not a professional environment and, above all: it’s not a secure place to discuss case studies or substantive questions.”
The move to a network within Doctolib was intended to change that. “We were looking for a place that is secure, organized, and feels professional. And where you can actually see who is in the network.”From practical tips to complex case studies
Since the launch of the network on Doctolib, it has been used enthusiastically. “What we see most is that colleagues ask each other questions,” according to the NCV. “That can be very practical — for example, about gluten-free products — but also about complex cases where you can’t quite figure it out yourself.”
According to the NCV, the strength lies mainly in the diversity of the responses. “You often get multiple perspectives. Sometimes it’s just nice that colleagues confirm you’re on the right track. Sometimes you get a new perspective you hadn’t thought of yourself.”
Referrals also play a role. “If it turns out a client is better served by someone with even more specific expertise, the network helps to quickly find the right colleague.”
An engaged and constructive atmosphere
What stands out is the way dietitians interact with each other in the network. “The atmosphere is really good,” says the NCV. “People genuinely think along with one another. No question is too crazy, and the responses are substantively strong and respectful.”
According to them, this culture is partly supported by the platform itself. “The appearance and professionalism of the environment help. And the fact that it is a defined, recognizable group makes people feel safe to ask questions.”
Better care, beyond the individual practice
The added value is not limited to the professionals themselves. “Ultimately, the client notices this,” emphasizes the NCV. “As a dietitian, you can indirectly make use of the knowledge and experience of more than a hundred colleagues. You are no longer on your own.”
According to the organization, this contributes to better and more consistent care for people with celiac disease. “You don’t have to wait until the next network day to brainstorm. You can switch gears quickly, and that directly benefits the quality of guidance.”
Looking ahead: more participation, more interaction
The network is still relatively young. “What we hope for now is that eventually all 120 members will actively join,” says the NCV. “And that interaction grows even further. The foundation is there, and it is strong.”
But one thing is already clear: “What we see here is that professionals truly help each other move forward. And that is exactly what the intention was.”