HonorHealth Launches Produce Prescription Program in Scottsdale

Interesting Facts

 

 

 

HonorHealth has introduced a groundbreaking Produce Prescription Program in Scottsdale, Arizona, designed to enhance health outcomes and address food insecurity among residents.

 

Funded by a nearly $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program, this initiative allows physicians to prescribe fresh fruits and vegetables as part of a patient's care plan.

 

Eligible participants, including those enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid managing chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or obesity, can receive $50 per month in produce credits for six months.

 

These credits are redeemable at Desert Mission's Mobile Farm Stands, which offer farm-fresh, organic produce at various community locations throughout Phoenix and Scottsdale.

 

In addition to providing access to nutritious foods, the program offers nutrition education and ongoing support from care teams, aiming to address both immediate needs and long-term health.

 

Haeli Miceli, executive director of Desert Mission, emphasized the program's alignment with their mission to meet people where they are, especially as they approach their 100th anniversary in 2027.

 

Dr. Shad Marvasti, executive director of the HonorHealth Whole Health Institute, highlighted the program's focus on addressing root causes of chronic disease by prescribing fresh produce alongside clinical care.

 

The Produce Prescription Program is set to run through September 14, 2028, with goals to improve dietary health, strengthen nutritional security, and enhance health outcomes related to blood pressure, weight, and blood sugar levels.

 

Participants can look forward to reduced complications and an improved quality of life.

 

For more information on the program and the Mobile Farm Stand schedule, residents are encouraged to visit HonorHealth's official website or contact Desert Mission directly.

 

In related community developments, Scottsdale is undergoing significant enhancements to its parks and recreation facilities.

 

Funded by a voter-approved sales tax, projects include new playgrounds, expanded sports facilities, and improved pedestrian areas, all aimed at enriching the community's quality of life.

 

These initiatives reflect Scottsdale's commitment to fostering a vibrant and healthy community for all residents.

Q/A Questions

Q: How does the Produce Prescription Program work?

A: The program allows healthcare providers to prescribe fresh fruits and vegetables to patients facing food insecurity or chronic health conditions.

Q: What are the benefits of participating in the Produce Prescription Program?

A: Patients can access nutritious foods to improve their overall health and well-being, while also reducing their risk of developing chronic diseases.

Q: How can patients enroll in the Produce Prescription Program?

A: Patients can speak with their healthcare provider to see if they qualify for the program and receive a prescription for fresh produce.