COMMITTEE CHAIR: Dr. Abida Solomon

TITLE: IMPROVING FOOD SECURITY AND NUTRITION: AN EVALUATION OF A FOOD FARMACY PROGRAM

ABSTRACT: Food insecurity is a significant social determinant of health (SDOH) that negatively impacts individuals with chronic illnesses, contributing to poor dietary habits and increased healthcare utilization. In response, Food Farmacy programs have emerged as innovative, clinic-based interventions that prescribe healthy food to patients experiencing food insecurity. These programs aim to improve dietary behaviors, support the management of chronic diseases, and promote health equity. However, operational inefficiencies, particularly within the referral process, can hinder their success. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project will assess the effectiveness of a Food Farmacy referral system implemented at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Greater Houston. Texas. Using a quantitative descriptive design guided by the SDOH framework, the project will assess the number of food insecurity screenings, prescriptions issued, barriers to redemption, and the effect on Hemoglobin A1c. Data will be collected through electronic health records, food pantry redemption logs, patient surveys, and electronic medical records. Descriptive statistics will be used to summarize data, identify existing gaps, and patterns related to care coordination and processes. The findings will report on key barriers and challenges identified that may influence the scalability of efforts to integrate nutritional access into primary care and impact population health.

Location Online:

Zoom Link:

https://pvpanther.zoom.us/j/96373585505?pwd=pItKSblCgdcvJfLibTCc9NtZHoEr4x.1