Perspectives of Health Care Staff On Predictors of Success in a Food Prescription Program: a Qualitative Study

Authors

John Wesley McWhorter
Jennifer N Aiyer
Nalini Ranjit
Jack Toups
Esther Liew
Jemima C John
Shreela V Sharma

Publication Date

1-12-2023

Journal

Preventing Chronic Disease

Abstract

Partnerships between food prescription programs and food banks can address food insecurity and support health; however, few studies have examined the experience and perceptions of health care partners about these programs. Our objective was to analyze secondary qualitative data from clinicians and clinic staff involved in implementing a food prescription program in Houston, Texas. We collected data from 17 health care clinics from May 2018 through March 2021 to learn how implementation of the food prescription program was perceived, and we received 252 responses. Principal themes were the importance of a value-based care strategy, patient and food pantry barriers to success, the importance of interorganizational care coordination, and the need to integrate food prescriptions into clinic workflow. Insights of clinicians and clinic staff on implementation of food prescription programs can inform program development and dissemination.

Keywords

Humans, Delivery of Health Care, Food, Qualitative Research, Ambulatory Care Facilities, Prescriptions