About the Collaborative

A branch of the Task Force’s “Food is Medicine” program, the Idaho Produce Prescription Collaborative (IdPPC) is a gathering of Idaho healthcare professionals and stakeholders concerned with the treatment of chronic diseases. Produce Prescription Programs have been shown to help manage chronic diet-related diseases, significantly reduce HbA1c levels, and improve overall health.

Produce prescriptions are medical treatments or preventative services for patients who are eligible due to (1) diet-related health risk or condition, (2) food insecurity or other documented challenges in access to nutritious foods, and (3) referral by a healthcare provider or health insurance plan. These prescriptions are fulfilled through food retailers and enable patients to access healthy fruits and vegetables with no added fats, sugars, or salt, at low or no cost to the patient.

The IdPPC takes inspiration and guidance from the National Produce Prescription Collaborative.

Interested in Joining?

Review the membership details to learn more about participation in the IdPPC. Email info@idahohunger.org to join this valuable networking group.

IdPPC Membership Details

Mission

Ensure food-insecure individuals with diabetes or pre-diabetes have access to fresh fruits and vegetables.

Vision

All Idahoans have access to Idaho Produce Prescription Programs regardless of economic status.

Objectives of the IdPPC

Become the leading expert for Produce Prescription Programs in Idaho.
Embed Produce Prescription Programs in clinics and hospitals throughout Idaho.
Set the Produce Prescription Program up for success in establishing sustainability and scalability by securing Medicaid 1115 waiver coverage.
Place Produce Prescription Programs in private and public insurance companies.
Reduce the risk of diabetes and other chronic diseases and food insecurity throughout Idaho.
Establish partnerships with food retailers, both local and chain, farmers' markets, and roadside stands to increase the use of local produce throughout Idaho.

Past Meeting Topics

At quarterly meetings, members learn about best practices and share stories about the successes of Produce Prescription Programs throughout Idaho. In addition, the Task Force shares information on both national and state policies about these programs.

JULY 16, 2024 — Section 1115 Medicaid Demonstration Waiver

Erika Hanson - Clinical Instructor at the Center for Health Law and Policy Innovation of Harvard Law School. Her work focuses on addressing the social determinants of health and health equity. Through this work, she advises community-based organizations, state agencies, and coalitions regarding the legal pathways and policy implementation strategies to integrate payment and delivery of health-related social needs services into our health care system, such as food and housing supports for those experiencing chronic illness, high-risk pregnancy, and others in need.

APR 16, 2024 — St. Luke’s Health Partners RxFFV Program, Treasure Valley

Dr. Alejandro Necochea - Medical Director at St. Luke’s Health Partners. Born in Lima, Peru, Dr. Necochea attended Yale School of Medicine and trained in Preventive Medicine at Johns Hopkins University, where he also received a master’s in public health. Among other things, in his current role, he fosters ties with community partners to address the social determinants of health.
Nicole Harper - Community Health Worker with St. Luke’s Health Partners. Ms. Harper began her career at St. Luke’s Health Partners 7 years ago as an administrative specialist. After obtaining her bachelor’s degree in business from Boise State University, she moved into the role of outreach coordinator on the Care Management team and continues to oversee the Rx for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables program.

JAN 16, 2024 — Leveraging Policy Advocacy to Spur Healthcare Innovation

Brent Ling - Director of External Affairs at Wholesome Wave. As a vocal advocate, Mr. lobbies for weaving health considerations in all relevant policies. A longtime resident of the District of Columbia, Brent graduated from the Johns Hopkins and Indiana University Schools of Public Health. He has been published in leading academic journals on topics of health and policymaker engagement.