What is the Food Pharmacy Program?
The Food Pharmacy program is University of Utah Health’s answer to food insecurity. The program is part of the Driving Out Diabetes Initiative. The program was first introduced in the late summer of 2020. Its purpose is to serve patients in the community who are struggling with chronic nutrition-related conditions and also experiencing food insecurity.
Our Mission
Our goal is to use food as medicine to support patients. We advocate for the prevention and management of nutrition-related diseases by increasing access to healthy foods and nutrition resources.
What is Food Insecurity?
Food insecurity is a lack of reliable access to food. Many individuals in our communities experience food insecurity. Without enough to eat, your chances of developing a chronic illness like diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease increase.
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), individuals experiencing food insecurity are 40% more likely to develop a chronic illness than those who have access to good-for-you food.
Food insecurity is about more than a lack of access to food. It is also about gaining access to food that is affordable, nutritious, and good for you.
Food Pharmacy Services
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The program provides healthy food to meet dietary needs. It also provides one-on-one nutrition education and coaching.
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The Food Pharmacy connects patients with valuable local resources that increase food access for themselves and their families.
How Does the Food Pharmacy Work?
The food pharmacy is a mobile trailer equipped with food-service-grade equipment. The pharmacy holds a wide variety of healthy food options available to patients with a food prescription from their provider.
To receive food, you must have a current referral/prescription and visit the trailer during operating hours. The food pharmacy trailer currently rotates between two locations:
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Redwood Health Center (1525 W 2100 S)
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Greenwood Health Center (7495 S State St)
Interested in our Food Pharmacy Program?
There are steps you need to take to get better nutrition for you and your family:
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Talk to your provider about eligibility.*
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Get a food prescription.
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Visit the Food Pharmacy.
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Take home food and resources.
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Follow up with a nutrition professional (in-person or virtual appointments available.)
*Eligibility is based on indicators of food insecurity and parameters of health.
Get Involved
Do you believe in the power of nourishing food? Do you think everyone in our community deserves to have access to healthy meal options? The Food Pharmacy could use your help in connecting food insecure individuals with the life-changing nutrition and education available through this program. Donate to the cause today or contact us and ask how you can get involved.
Contact Us
Email: foodpharmacy@utah.edu
Phone Number: 801-213-8720
Connect with other nutrition services through University of Utah Health
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
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