Screening for Food Insecurity in Suburban Pediatric Offices

After implementing a food insecurity screening program in suburban Philadelphia, researchers found high acceptability, but low impact.

Screening for food insecurity (FI) has become more common in urban practices. Now, investigators report on two studies exploring FI screening in suburban pediatric practices, where a growing number of poor and near-poor families reside.

Researchers implemented an electronic health record–based FI screener in six diverse suburban practices around Philadelphia. At the 2-month, 15-month, and 36-month well-child visits, clinicians were prompted to ask parents a recommended two-question FI screener as part of the nutritional history. Families who screened positive (3% of 4371 screened; range across offices, 1%–6%) were offered a referral to a community partner to help apply for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Only 64 (52%) a…

Reviewing Author

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Jenny Radesky, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardMelissa & Doug Toys (Consultant and Board of Directors)

Grant/Research SupportNational Institute for Child Health and Development; National Institutes of Health

Screening for Food Insecurity in Suburban Pediatric Offices

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Reviewing Author