Examination and Optimization of the Critical Access Food Pantry Workflow at UW Health
Objective: To assess policies and procedures in place for patients who screen positive for food insecurity and enhance the clinical workflow to better meet the need of these patients as well as expand access to the UWH pantry overall.
Background: Food security or lack thereof plays an integrative role in the determinants of health outcomes. Hospitals often exist at the intersection of food insecurity and poor health status and therefore lend the opportunity to address this critical issue. The food pantry at UW Health tries to alleviate the side effects of limited access to food such as chronic disease, rate of return to clinic, and financial stress. Although this functions as a useful tool, administrative procedural discontinuities exist that challenge the overall effectiveness of the food pantry program.
Methods: Through surveys and interviews with members of staff and leadership involved in utilizing and maintaining the UWH food pantry, areas for improvement were identified and addressed in order of descending priority and feasibility. Interventions are tailored to ease the logistical barriers to at-risk patients receiving timely and appropriate food pantry items.
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