Few produce prescription programs have taken place in rural areas, in the context of existing public health programs. Thus, the purpose of this mixed-methods study was to examine voucher redemption rates, change in fruit and vegetable intake, and suggestions for improvement among participants enrolled in a produce prescription program occurring in existing public health programs throughout rural eastern North Carolina. We examined voucher redemption rates and conducted pre- (n = 125) and post-intervention surveys assessing fruit and vegetable intake. t-tests were used to examine changes in intake pre- versus post-intervention among 50 participants. Participants (n = 32) also completed a semi-structured, telephone interview. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed to determine potential improvements. The overall voucher redemption rate was 52%. There was a 0.29 (standard deviation = 0.91, p = 0.031) cup increase in self-reported fruit intake comparing post- to pre-intervention data. Qualitative analyses indicated that participants enjoyed the financial benefits of the program and wanted it to continue. The produce prescription program was successful in increasing self-reported fruit intake among participants. More research is needed to determine if changes in intake persist when measured objectively, and on best methods for the program's financial sustainability.
Keywords: fruit and vegetable intake; produce prescription program; rural populations.