Strengthening Care Through Food Is Medicine: Healthcare Provider-Patient Relationships and Provider Fulfillment in a Produce Prescription Program.

Abstract

Produce prescription programs (PPRs) are evidence-based strategies increasingly used to address food insecurity and prevent or manage diet-related chronic disease. <i>Fresh to Flourish</i> is a PPR implemented in 2 Colorado-based practices within the CommonSpirit Health system. This qualitative study explored: (1) how implementing <i>Fresh to Flourish</i> impacts provider-patient relationships, and (2) the fulfillment experience of PPR referral providers. Virtual 1:1 key informant interviews were conducted with healthcare providers. Interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and independently double coded using a deductive codebook aligned with the 7 constructs of the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability of Healthcare Interventions. Ten interviews were completed across 1 rural and 1 suburban Colorado practices. Four themes emerged: (1) providers perceived <i>Fresh to Flourish</i> as valuable to patient care; (2) discussions about financial strain and food insecurity prompted referrals; (3) providers appreciated the simple referral process and on-site program staff; and (4) providers shared insights about integrating <i>Fresh to Flourish</i> into clinical workflow and systems. As aligned with the supporting theory, providers demonstrated high affective attitude, ethical alignment, and perceived effectiveness of <i>Fresh to Flourish</i>, with minimal burden and strong self-efficacy. Overall, providers viewed <i>Fresh to Flourish</i> as impactful while emphasizing the need to expand access and reduce barriers.