Influence of a pediatric fruit and vegetable prescription program in Flint Michigan on caregiver perceptions of pediatric health care

Top Things to Know

This study shows that pediatric produce prescriptions are not only a nutrition support but also a relational intervention, improving caregiver perceptions of communication and care coordination.

FIM programs must address barriers to participation (e.g., transportation, redemption sites, education) to avoid widening inequities among those least able to engage.

Clinical food prescriptions reinforce the healthcare–nutrition connection.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

This longitudinal study evaluated whether engagement in a pediatric fruit and vegetable prescription program (FVPP) in Flint, Michigan was associated with changes in caregivers’ perceptions of pediatric primary care. Among 247 caregiver–child dyads followed over 24 months, caregivers whose children redeemed at least one $15 produce prescription reported significant improvements in overall perceptions of care compared with those who did not engage. Improvements were most evident in coordination of care and communication, with statistically significant time-by-engagement interactions for the total care score and coordination subscale. In contrast, caregivers who did not redeem prescriptions experienced stable or declining perceptions of care over time. These differences persisted after adjustment for demographic factors and SNAP participation. Overall, the findings suggest that engagement in pediatric produce prescriptions may strengthen caregiver–provider relationships and enhance perceived quality of care, beyond nutritional benefits alone.