WIP 57 - Produce Prescription Programs: A community-based approach to addressing food insecurity and obesity in a Federally Qualified Health Center in Southwest Denver

Publication Number: WIP 57.7364

Kathryn G. Hawrot, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO, United States; Julie Venci, University of Colorado School of Medicine, denver, CO, United States; Carolina Gutierrez, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO, United States; Josh Durfee, denver health, Superior, CO, United States

Background: Children with obesity face an increased risk for developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and fatty liver disease. Racial and socioeconomic inequities further exacerbate this issue, placing low-income and racially minoritized people at higher risk for obesity and worse health outcomes. In response to these trends, there has been momentum among Produce Prescription Programs (PPPs). Growing evidence suggests that PPPs can play a crucial role in improving personal health and dietary practices. We partnered with a local community organization to improve access to fresh produce for families living in Southwest Denver by providing a weekly PPP to patients at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).

Objective: The goal of this intervention was to assist patients facing food insecurity or obesity-related health conditions and improve their long-term health by increasing access to, and consumption of, fresh produce. The objectives were: 1) Enroll at least 80 households to participate in a 12-week PPP between July and October 2024, and 2) Increase participants’ access and daily consumption of fresh produce.

Design/Methods: Our project involved a 12-week PPP from July to October 2024 at a primary care clinic and FQHC located in Southwest Denver. Enrolled participants received weekly produce boxes. Inclusion Criteria: Participants must be patients at the Southwest Family Health Center, have at least one child < 18 in the home, and live in zip code 80219 or 80223.
This project was reviewed by the Denver Health Quality Improvement Review Committee and was determined not to be human subjects research. 142 participants were included in the recruitment period (5/2024-8/2024). Data sources included chart review and pre-/post-surveys (conducted 7/2024-11/2024). Chart review included demographics, lab review, and review of obesity-related diagnoses. Quantitative data will be analyzed to compare differences between paired pre-/post-surveys (chi-square and Wilcoxon test) and qualitative data through coding/grouping. Analysis will occur 11/2024-1/2025.