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Investing in Food Security for Better Health Outcomes

Access to nutritious food is critical for good health, yet many Americans face food insecurity, increasing their risk for chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. These health issues lower quality of life and drive up healthcare costs, straining the healthcare system. Supporting food security programs can mitigate these problems, improve health outcomes, and reduce costs over time.

AHPA Recognizes That Food Insecurity is a Determinant of Health

AHPA emphasizes that food insecurity is an essential health determinant. It highlights the importance of policies addressing this issue, stressing that job creation, fair wages, and expanded training opportunities are crucial for tackling the root causes of food insecurity. Additionally, it is important to increase enrollment in federal nutrition programs for children, such as the School Lunch Program.

Several Healthcare Systems are Already Leading the Way in Addressing Food Insecurity Within Their Communities:

AdventHealth has implemented programs like the Primary Care Clinic in Manchester, Kentucky, which operates a food pantry and hosts free meal events in a region with high food insecurity rates.
AdventHealth’s “Food is Health” program in Tampa, Florida, focuses on “food deserts,” partnering with local organizations to provide nutritional education and access to healthy food.
Adventist Health Rideout screens all inpatients for food insecurity and refers those in need to the local food bank.
Adventist HealthCare donates funds to organizations tackling food insecurity, including those providing medically tailored meals and nutrition counseling.

LLUH Takes a Proactive Approach to Improving Access to Nutritious Food

Loma Linda’s Fresh Produce Distribution program collaborates with Bienestar and Inland Empire Health Plan to provide fresh produce to families in need, particularly during challenging times like COVID-19.
A research study conducted among LLUH students revealed the prevalence of food insecurity and its impact on academic performance, bringing attention to the need for continued efforts to support students facing food insecurity.
Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital has received grants from Rite Aid Healthy Futures to fight food insecurity, addressing this issue among vulnerable populations especially children.

Kettering Health’s Programs Incorporate Food Security Into Healthcare Practices

Dr. Rachelle Dulan Hood, a primary care physician, empowers their patients to manage their health proactively by providing access to healthy cooking education.
Kettering Health’s updated inpatient meal options with high-fiber, unprocessed, and plant-forward dishes demonstrate its commitment to promoting whole-person wellness through nutrition.

Government Investment Can Create Sustainable Solutions for Food Insecurity Nationwide

Funding can support:

Expanding food security screening and referral programs within healthcare systems.
Increasing access to healthy food options in underserved communities through initiatives like mobile grocery services and community gardens.
Developing and implementing nutrition education programs that empower individuals to make healthier food choices.
Supporting research and data collection to better understand the impact of food insecurity on health outcomes and identify effective interventions.

Addressing food insecurity is not just a matter of social responsibility but also an investment in public health. Investing in programs that improve access to nutritious food will create a healthier population, reduce healthcare costs, and build stronger communities.