Work

Comparing patient and provider perspectives on a rural, multilevel, community-engaged Food is Medicine intervention

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Introduction: Community engagement and multistakeholder alignment are critical for implementing effective Food is Medicine (FIM) programs. Together with the Delta Health Center and regional farmers in the Mississippi Delta, the Delta GREENS (Growing a Resilient, Enriching, Equitable, Nourishing food System) FIM Project is testing the effects of a multilevel, community-engaged intervention that provides weekly locally-grown produce boxes over 12 months on adult cardiometabolic outcomes. Methods: = 19) across 3 counties during formative stages of Delta GREENS. We compared patients' and healthcare providers' perspectives on potential impacts of FIM and logistical, context-specific implementation considerations, and thematically analyzed transcripts using an inductive approach. Results: Patients emphasized macro-level structural benefits (ie, increasing household purchasing power, boosting local economies) while providers emphasized individual-level benefits (ie, nutrition education) of Delta GREENS. Patients wanted box quantities scaled to household sizes, while providers voiced concerns about healthcare-related frustrations, such as patient non-adherence and attrition. Both groups agreed that produce boxes could support healthy eating. Conclusion: This study provides critical insights to better align stakeholder priorities to guide the design of culturally responsive FIM programs.

Source: Health Affairs Scholar

DOI: 10.1093/haschl/qxag072