An Examination of Cardio-Vascular Patients’ Experiences in a Rural Food Prescription Program

The burden of diet-related chronic diseases in rural communities has prompted the implementation of food prescription programs in rural areas to investigate the impact of more affordable and accessible fresh produce on these vulnerable populations. Because there is little research on the impact of food prescription programs on cardiovascular patients in rural areas, this study will focus on how food prescription programs can benefit this at-risk population. Another goal of this study is to receive feedback from participants to improve food prescription programs to better suit cardiovascular participant needs. To accomplish these goals, a series of questions were asked to qualifying participants with a cardiovascular condition to help identify cardiac specific interventions that could be implemented in an existing program. From these questions, it was found that 100% of participants interviewed said that food prescription programs have helped them improve their eating habits, but they would have to purchase significantly less produce without support from the program. Because of this, it is recommended to help participants find sustainable access to healthier options long-term.