Veggie Rx: an outcome evaluation of a healthy food incentive programme

Top Things to Know

The Veggie Rx program successfully increased access to fresh produce for low-income patients, with participants experiencing significant decrease in BMI.

The use of mobile markets and produce coupons proved to be an effective and feasible intervention.

Emphasizes the importance of integrating nutrition interventions into healthcare settings to promote overall well-being and chronic disease management.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The study evaluated the Veggie Rx program, a healthy food incentive initiative aimed at increasing access to fresh produce for low-income patients with obesity, hypertension, and/or type 2 diabetes in Albany, NY. Using a retrospective pre/post design, the study found a statistically significant decrease in BMI among program participants compared to a control group. Participants received weekly produce coupons redeemable at a mobile market, which facilitated increased fruit and vegetable consumption.