Adults with very low food security are 53% more likely to have a chronic illness, and have 47% more emergency room visits and hospital admissions.

Through the Produce Prescription Program of South Central NY (PRxSCNY), we’re working to prevent these and other impacts of high rates of food insecurity and diet-related disease by utilizing our region’s agricultural resources.

The PRx program allows health care providers in the community to write prescriptions for fresh fruits and vegetables to patients who are at-risk or have been diagnosed with diet-related chronic illness. Patients receive vouchers to spend at local farmers’ markets, farms stands, and other retail options – giving additional purchasing power to people who need it most. Participants receive support and education throughout the program, and can attend additional nutrition, cooking, gardening, and chronic disease self-management classes.

The program was launched as a pilot in 2017 at two primary care offices with funding from Care Compass Network. This summer it will be offered in clinics in Broome, Delaware, Tioga, and Tompkins Counties.

The PRx program is made possible by funding from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, and support from many local partners like the ones below.