Experiences of people with diabetes receiving a voucher for healthy foods: a qualitative study

Top Things to Know

Nutritionally appropriate food is a medical intervention, and affordability is a critical barrier that prescriptions or vouchers can help overcome.

For FIM programs to produce sustained clinical benefits, voucher amounts must reflect real food costs and allow purchase at culturally relevant, affordable retail options.

FIM interventions can benefit whole‑person health which highlights the value of embedding healthy‑food supports within clinical care for chronic disease management.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

This qualitative study explored the experiences of 20 adults with diabetes or prediabetes facing food insecurity who received a monthly CAD $65 healthy‑food voucher for six months as part of a clinical trial. Participants reported that the voucher enabled them to purchase healthier foods (especially fruits and vegetables) that they already knew supported diabetes management but previously could not afford. The vouchers also increased participants’ sense of agency, improved mental and emotional well‑being, and in some cases reduced food insecurity by freeing up money for other essential expenses. However, many felt the voucher amount was insufficient given high food prices, and some experienced minor stigma or logistical challenges (e.g., store restrictions, transportation, forgetting the card). Participants also noted the benefits did not persist after the program ended, as they could not sustain healthier purchasing habits without ongoing support. Overall, the study concludes that healthy‑food vouchers can meaningfully support diabetes self‑management and well‑being, but greater value and flexibility may be needed for sustained impact.