Community buy-in and client engagement in a produce prescription program

Abstract

Background

Millions of Americans are at risk for diet-related disease and food insecurity. Parkview Health has made a commitment to addressing social determinants of health and, specifically, breaking down barriers to access to healthy food via the VeggieRx program, which partners with local fresh food providers to dispense tangible, healthy food incentives to health-marginalized patients. The VeggieRx program targets individuals with chronic disease and health risks in Allen County, IN, where approximately one third of the population lives in a food desert. The program goal is to increase fresh produce intake, improve health, and reduce healthcare costs and food insecurity.

Methods

Provider organizations refer eligible individuals to VeggieRx by screening for food insecurity using the two-question Hunger Vital Signs tool, or by referring individuals with Medicaid or those uninsured with prediabetes, diabetes, cardiac disease, hypertension, or women with at-risk pregnancy. Participants are required to attend two education classes plus two phone or virtual consults over their six-month active program enrollment to receive $50/month vouchers for fresh fruits and vegetables (max $300).

Results

Since 2022, VeggieRx has received 284 referrals from 40 community health clinics. Of those, 175 enrolled, and 171 individuals participated in the program (75% women, 58% minority, average age = 60.6). Participants attended four education sessions where approximately 60-90% is education and 10-40% is interactive/hands-on (e.g., taste testing or food preparation).

Conclusion

Partnerships with community vendors and clinics has bolstered referrals to and engagement in VeggieRx. Health and wellness program implementation can be facilitated through stakeholder engagement.

Funding Source

USDA Gusnip Funding - Award Number 2021-70030-35744; USDA Gusnip Funding - Award Number 2022-70423-38070; Indiana State Department of Health Produce Prescription Planning; Fair Food Network Building Capacity and Innovation; No Kid Hungry - Rural Produce Prescription.

Document Type

Meeting Abstract

Publication Date

9-2023

Publication Title

Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

First Page

A46

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