Healthcare provider perceptions of a pediatric fruit and vegetable prescription program: A qualitative study

Background: Exposure to pediatric fruit and vegetable prescription programs (FVPP) is associated with improvements in food security, dietary intake, and clinical markers of health in youth. However, an investigation of experiences with these programs from physicians and staff responsible for implementation is missing. This study was a qualitative investigation of provider and staff experiences with a pediatric FVPP that provided one $15 produce prescription to patients during pediatric visits. 

Methods: Researchers conducted focus groups across four primary care clinics that offered the pediatric FVPP for at least four years. Focus group recordings were transcribed for textual analysis. Using thematic analysis, researchers examined qualitative data to identify patterns across transcripts and formulate emerging themes. Researchers concluded when data saturation was reached. 

Results: Eight focus groups across four clinics were conducted with a total of 40 participants (n = 20 healthcare providers, n = 20 staff). The following recurrent themes emerged: (i) reliance on community-based organization; (ii) operationalizing the FVPP; (iii) clinic benefits; (iv) program challenges; and (v) program suggestions. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that providers and staff who implemented the current pediatric FVPP perceived the program to have numerous benefits, including improved no-show rates. Findings inform national efforts to establish standards that guide development, implementation, and expansion of produce prescription programs.