How Patient Education and Patient Engagement Combats Food Insecurity

Food insecurity, defined as a lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life, is a severe concern in the United States. According to the USDA, 10.5% of U.S. households were food insecure at some point in 2020. This equates to 13.8 million households or 38.3 million people, including 14.8 million children.

Food insecurity has significant consequences for health and well-being. Food-insecure individuals are more likely to experience chronic diseases, mental health problems, and lower educational attainment.

The Role of the Pediatric Medical Home

Pediatricians are in a unique position to help because they regularly see children and families who are struggling. Beyond screening at every well-child visit, pediatricians can use social media to support patients between office visits by:

1. Providing referrals to local food pantries and other resources. Share local resources, events, and services your patients can take advantage of.
2. Guiding families through subsidy programs. The enrollment process can vary widely. Help families navigate with step-by-step instructions.
3. Encouraging nutrition counseling. Studies have shown children who receive nutrition counseling are more likely to eat healthy foods and maintain a healthy weight.
4. Educating families about nutrition through proactive patient education both in-person and through digital channels.
5. Supporting awareness campaigns. Hashtags like #FoodInsecurityAwareness, #FoodRescue, #FoodforAll, and #NoKidHungry have reached tens of millions. Having more trusted messengers sharing these resources advances these missions.

Social Cascade's Collective Impact Model

Being aware of all the resources, services, programs, and events related to food insecurity in your community can feel impossible. Social Cascade's Collective Impact Model exists for exactly this. We partner with organizations in your community to source content developed for your patients, so you can share relevant information every day without lifting a finger.

By working together, we can help end food insecurity. Contact us to learn more.