In a PhytoRx program, PHHI Extension partnered with HealthReach Community Clinic, FeedNC and NC Cooperative Extension-Iredell County. This deployment of the program is just one example of how to support providers and participants; we recognize each community is different and may need to adjust the program and partnering organizations to fulfill the program objectives.

Medical providers at HealthReach (a free clinic for the uninsured) were trained by Cheri Granillo, FNP, in the latest research supporting lifestyle medicine and phytochemicals, how to use the PhytoRx pad, and how to enroll patients to participate.

HealthReach wrote PhytoRx prescriptions for patients with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and eye and skin issues. These health complications can benefit from phytochemicals found in certain fruits and vegetables.

Patients brought their PhytoRx to FeedNC, a local food distribution center on a certain day of the week to receive a free box of fresh produce.

Each week, Iredell County Family and Consumer Sciences Extension agent Andrea Sherrill, RD, covered one of the Med Instead of Meds seven steps to health. This is ideally done through in-person gatherings to build community support for a healthy lifestyle and share lived experiences, but virtual classes are another option.

Patients were given a kitchen tool (branded with PhytoRx) at each class and a cookbook with budget-friendly, healthy recipes that further demonstrate the ease of incorporating nutritious behavior changes to support better health.