P134 Produce Prescription Projects: Challenges, Solutions, and Emerging Best Practices - Perspectives from Health Care Providers Across the United States

Abstract

<h3>Background</h3> Produce prescription programs (PPR) have become increasingly common to address the poor health outcomes associated with food insecurity and diet-related chronic disease. These programs involve "prescriptions" for fruits and vegetables within a routine medical visit for eligible individuals. Benefits of PPRs include increased fruit and vegetable purchasing and consumption, reduced household food insecurity, and improved clinical health outcomes. However, only a few regionally bound studies focus on experience of those health care providers (HCP) who make the ‘prescription.' <h3>Objective</h3> The purpose of this study is to explore HCP perspectives and experiences with PPRs funded by the United States Department of Agriculture Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (USDA GusNIP). <h3>Study Design, Setting, Participants</h3> Multiple methods including descriptive survey (n = 34) followed by individual key-informant interviews. Interviewees were HCPs (n = 16) from across the United States recruited through USDA GusNIP PPR networks. Interviews were conducted via videoconference, recorded, and transcribed verbatim. <h3>Measurable Outcomes/Analysis</h3> Transcripts were coded using thematic qualitative analysis methods by three independent coders using Atlas.ti (Mac Version 8.1.1). <h3>Results</h3> Three cross-cutting key themes emerged. First, HCPs shared challenges of PPRs including: lack of time/staff, difficulty with provider and patient engagement, steep "trial and error" learning curve, and formidable barriers related to data sharing and research-related requirements (e.g., Institutional Review Board approval). Second, HCPs elucidated best practices/lessons learned (e.g., establishing a ‘program champion') as a response to the experienced challenges. Third, HCPs expressed robust program satisfaction and desire to expand sustainable PPRs. HCPs also provided a shared understanding of the need for rigorous program evaluation to establish sustained funding and policies, but contextualized this need with the aforementioned challenges with collecting and sharing patient-related data outcomes. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Findings provide emergent best practices and indicate what additional resources are needed to sustainably implement and rigorously evaluate PPRs. <h3>Funding</h3> USDA