Incorporating a Produce Prescription Intervention Into Clinical Practice: Lessons Learned From a Food Is Medicine Intervention

Abstract

Food is Medicine (FIM) interventions are growing in popularity. Designed to provide nutritious food to patients experiencing food insecurity and/or diet-related health conditions, these programs have the potential to improve dietary quality and health outcomes. As more programs are being implemented, however, there is little information available on the practicalities and logistics of implementation, particularly when embedding FIM interventions within health care organizations. In this report, we outline providers’ experiences implementing a produce prescription pilot for 545 military veterans in two major metropolitan areas in a single health care organization. We outline the lessons learned in the process and provide key insights and factors that should be considered when planning an FIM intervention.