Pilot Program to Assess Effectiveness of a Meal Supplementation Program in Addressing Food Insecurity in Pregnancy [ID: 1376240

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Food insecurity (FI) has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes including hypertension, decreased birth weight, and increased prenatal depression, and can be reduced by meal supplementation programs. However, screening for FI is not universal during pregnancy, and few studies address the feasibility of screening and implementation of interventions such as meal supplementation programs within prenatal clinics. METHODS: A novel pilot program was designed in collaboration with Meals on Wheels (MoW) to provide meal supplementation to positively screened pregnant individuals and their households. Universal FI screening for all patients occurred during their obstetrical intake visit using the “Hunger Vital Sign.” Those screening positive were offered enrollment in the program. To address the feasibility of incorporating enrollment into routine obstetric care, clinic practitioners were surveyed anonymously on the program and its potential effect on clinic workflow. RESULTS: In the first 3 months of the program, one in five (42/211 [20%]) of new prenatal patients screened positive for FI; of these, more than half (23/42 [55%]) of those with FI desired enrollment in the program. Nearly all clinic practitioners (35/36 [97%]) felt the program was beneficial to patients and 91% (32/35) agreed the program “does not significantly interfere” with their work. 97% (35/36) felt the program should continue. CONCLUSION: Food insecurity is prevalent among pregnant patients, but more than half of eligible patients declined meal supplementation program enrollment. Although incorporating such a program into a prenatal clinic is feasible from a provider perspective, feedback on the program from eligible participants is urgently needed to increase uptake rates.