Date of Completion

Spring 5-1-2026

Thesis Advisor(s)

Chinenye Anyanwu, PharmD, MPH; Brian Aneskievich, PhD

Honors Major

Doctor of Pharmacy

Disciplines

Other Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences | Public Health

Abstract

Produce prescription (PRx) programs are an emerging Food is Medicine intervention designed to address diet-related chronic diseases and food insecurity by integrating healthcare delivery with access to fruits and vegetables. Diet-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease represent a major public health burden in the United States, particularly among populations with limited access to nutritious food. Despite growing evidence supporting PRx programs, pharmacists -- who routinely manage these conditions and monitor outcomes -- are underutilized in program implementation. The objective of this project is to translate the public health aspects of PRx programs into an accessible, pharmacist-focused educational resource that highlights practical opportunities for clinical engagement. A literature review was conducted to identify key elements of PRx program design, funding mechanisms, implementation models, clinical outcomes, and operational barriers. These findings were synthesized into an educational handout designed for pharmacists without formal public health training, emphasizing concise explanations and relevance to pharmacist workflow. The final resource outlines how PRx programs are funded through the USDA Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP), contrasts PRx programs with nutrition incentive programs, and summarizes evidence demonstrating improvements in fruit and vegetable intake, food security, blood pressure, and glycemic control among participants. The handout also identifies multiple points across the care continuum where pharmacists can intervene, including counseling and deprescribing as disease control improves. This project demonstrates that pharmacists can meaningfully contribute to Food is Medicine initiatives using existing clinical competencies, supporting prevention-focused care and strengthening efforts to address diet-related health disparities.

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