Scan of Technology Solutions in the Produce Prescription Field: A Snapshot of Available Software-based Solutions and Emerging Equity Considerations
This report has been commissioned to provide analysis and guidance on technology solutions for produce prescription (PRx) program operators, as well as funders and ally organizations. It features a list of commonly used technology tools leveraged by program operators, categorizes how they fit into these complex initiatives, and provides frameworks and recommendations.
As the PRx model is new and best practices are still being established, supporting technology is nascent. However, our analysis showed several promising platforms dedicated specifically to managing PRx programs are beginning to emerge. Interviews with PRx program operators surfaced a critical need for these technologies to serve as a tool to promote inclusion and justice, rather than being a barrier. The developing Fidelity, Equity, and Dignity (FED) framework was used to explore emerging equity considerations for PRx information technology (IT), which is included in this report.
As PRx programs have proliferated around the country in recent years and sought to sustain themselves and scale up, IT solutions have gained momentum. This research has identified that PRx Practitioners are seeking out technology solutions which help:
Establish reliable electronic prescription redemption,
Analyze data and provide more accurate and rapid information for healthcare partners,
Enhance participant motivation, while often adding wrap-around support and education,
Run more efficiently, reliably, and predictably overall.
This report provides a set of recommendations for the PRx field, including:
Develop a curated online forum for practitioners to share current information on IT platforms for PRx and their experiences with those platforms,
Identify and support IT platforms that align with equity needs of the field,
Create an inclusive group of PRx program operators to interact with and inform the development of new technology solutions,
Prioritize IT solutions that track program impacts centering the data and learning needs of program partners, not just redemption functionality.
Despite significant challenges, the pace of development of PRx programs and associated technology is allowing for great innovation and capacity expansion. With continual improvements in technology, there is a strong promise to advance the use of this PRx model for impactful alignment between public health, food, and healthcare system…
