What is the Eatwell Program?
The Eatwell program in NC is a 'Food is Medicine' initiative that provides monthly funds for purchasing fruits and vegetables to eligible, food-insecure individuals. Managed by the non-profit Reinvestment Partners, it aims to combat diet-related health issues by giving patients access to healthy, affordable food options. Instead of relying on traditional food stamps, Eatwell operates on a produce prescription model, where patients are referred by a healthcare provider or insurance plan. Benefits are distributed electronically, often via a prepaid debit card, to make the process seamless and discreet for participants. This innovative approach is part of a larger movement to integrate healthy food access into the healthcare system.
How the Produce Prescription Model Works
The Eatwell program functions as a referral-based system, integrating healthcare and food assistance.
- Patient Screening: Healthcare providers, clinics, or insurance plans identify and screen patients for food insecurity and diet-related health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
- Prescription: Once identified, eligible patients receive a 'prescription' for produce. This is not a traditional prescription but a referral for benefits from Eatwell.
- Enrollment: Patients are enrolled in the Eatwell program, typically providing their information and loyalty card details from participating retailers like Food Lion.
- Benefit Distribution: Funds are loaded onto a prepaid debit card or linked to an existing grocery store loyalty card. The benefit amount can vary depending on the funding source, with some programs offering $40, $80, or $100 monthly for fruits and vegetables.
- Shopping: Participants can use their benefits at designated partner retailers across North Carolina to purchase WIC-approved fruits and vegetables, including fresh, frozen, and canned options without added sugars, fats, or salts.
Eatwell Program Funding and Expansion
The Eatwell program is primarily funded through a combination of sources, enabling its statewide reach and expansion. This includes significant investments from the North Carolina state budget, federal grants like the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP), and private partnerships with insurance providers such as WellCare of North Carolina and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina.
This diverse funding model allows for various iterations of the program, such as the produce prescription initiative for Medicaid members in specific pilot regions, or special programs for veterans and other at-risk groups. Reinvestment Partners continues to build on these partnerships, advocating for sustainable, long-term funding to make produce prescriptions a standard, covered health benefit.
Who is Eligible for the Eatwell Program in NC?
Eligibility for the Eatwell program can vary depending on the specific project and funding source, but it generally targets food-insecure individuals with diet-related health conditions.
Common eligibility criteria include:
- Low-income status: Often determined by participation in other benefits programs like SNAP or Medicaid.
- Diagnosis of a diet-related illness: Such as diabetes, hypertension, or high A1C levels.
- Residency in a specific pilot region or county: Some initiatives are part of the Healthy Opportunities Pilots (HOP), which operate in targeted areas of North Carolina.
- Referral from a healthcare provider or case manager: Enrollment is not self-directed in most cases; a medical professional or case worker must make the referral.
Comparison of Eatwell Program and SNAP (FNS)
It's important to understand how the produce prescription program differs from the standard Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) in North Carolina.
| Feature | Eatwell (Produce Prescription) | SNAP (FNS) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Targets food-insecure individuals with diet-related health conditions; designed to be a healthcare intervention. | Broad nutritional assistance program for low-income households. |
| Funding | Varies by program, including state grants, federal funds (GusNIP), and health insurance partnerships. | Federal funding administered by the state's Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS). |
| Eligibility | Requires a referral from a healthcare provider or managed care plan, focusing on specific health diagnoses. | Based on household income, size, and other general criteria. |
| Benefit Form | Funds loaded onto a prepaid debit card or linked to a retailer loyalty card. | Benefits loaded onto a standard Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. |
| Purchase Restrictions | Restricted to WIC-approved fruits and vegetables, including fresh, frozen, and canned options. | Allows for the purchase of most food items for human consumption, including produce, meat, dairy, and bread. |
Benefits of the Eatwell Program
Research and case studies have demonstrated the positive impact of the Eatwell program on participants' health and shopping habits. A UNC study showed that participants often double their fruit and vegetable purchases after enrolling. Other reported benefits include improved health markers and increased confidence in preparing nutritious meals. By focusing on providing healthy food where and when people shop, the program respects client choice and dignity, leading to greater engagement and better health outcomes.
Conclusion
What started as a localized pilot in Durham has evolved into a nationally recognized produce prescription model, helping thousands of North Carolinians facing food insecurity and diet-related health issues. The Eatwell program, managed by Reinvestment Partners, bridges the gap between healthcare and food access by providing targeted financial assistance for fruits and vegetables. Through a network of healthcare and retail partners, it offers a practical and dignified solution to a complex problem, contributing significantly to the health and well-being of the state's residents. For more information, eligible individuals should contact their health plan or care manager to explore enrollment options through initiatives like the Healthy Opportunities Pilots.
For additional resources, visit the official website for Eatwell produce prescription programs www.eatwellrx.org.
