A Prescription Produce Program integrating lifestyle behavior counseling and health education: A program description and evaluation

Abstract

Prescription Produce Programs (PPPs) are increasingly being used to address food insecurity and healthy diets. Yet, limited evidence exists on the effectiveness of integrating lifestyle counseling within a PPP to promote dietary and health behaviors. To describe the implementation of a 6- or 12-week PPP integrating lifestyle counseling to low-income adults. The PPP was implemented as part of a wellness and care coordination program and included: (i) a screening for social needs, (ii) PPP health education and lifestyle counseling visits, and (iii) distribution of produce. We conducted a pre- and post-descriptive analysis. We also reported a case study illustrating the PPP implementation and a Strengths/Weaknesses/Opportunities/Threats analysis. Fifty-three participants (85% Black American, 64% female, mean age: 66 years) completed the PPP. Food insecurity scores significantly decreased between pre- and post-enrollment in the PPP (P = .002). Compared with pre-enrollment, participants who completed the PPP reported an increase in the frequency of fruits and vegetables intake (χ² = 12.6, P = .006). A majority of the participants (77%) reported setting and achieving at least one health-related goal by the end of the program. A strength of the PPP included the long-standing relationship with community partners. Weaknesses included the survey burden, the need for additional personnel, and the need for a sustained funding source. Integrating lifestyle counseling within a PPP can promote food security and a healthy diet. Future research is warranted using rigorous research methods, including randomization and a comparison group.