Multi-stakeholder perspectives on the implementation of a clinic-based food referral program for patients with chronic conditions: a qualitative examination

Top Things to Know

Provided valuable insights into the barriers of FRP implementation, including time constraints, transportation issues, and stigma.

Identified important facilitators to FRP implementation that support successful implementation, including program champions and coordinated processes.

Emphasized the potential of FRPs to advance health equity, and offered a model for scaling FRPs in diverse healthcare settings, which is helpful to the advancement of the HCXF initiative.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The study examined the implementation of a clinic-based food referral program (FRP) for food-insecure patients with chronic conditions at an academic medical center. It identifies key barriers, such as provider time constraints, inadequate feedback, patient transportation issues, and stigma associated with food pantry use. Facilitators include program champions, coordinated screening and referral processes, and efforts to reduce stigma. The study highlights opportunities to refine and optimize FRP models to advance health equity.