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Plants for Human Health Institute
PhytoMedicine
Plants for Human Health Institute

A Community Health Initiative

Resources available in English and Spanish.

Why PhytoRx?

Research shows…that individuals are more likely to enact a behavior change if it is recommended by their healthcare provider.

Research behind the “Why”

PhytoRx is a collaborative community health program that improves nutrition education for healthcare providers and empowers community members to make healthier choices utilizing the resources already available in their communities.

Explore 3 Ways PhytoRx will Make Your Community Healthier.

PhytoRx Roles

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Healthcare Provider Training

Provider education to improve the understanding of the bioactive nature of phytochemicals is the key component differentiating PhytoRx from other produce prescription programs.

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Produce Prescription

A PhytoRxTM prescription pad enables providers to incorporate specific foods into patient treatment plans, beyond the overly general advice to “improve your diet.”

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Patient Education

Many Extension and community nutrition programs, like Med Instead of Meds or Steps to Health, are suitable for supporting PhytoRx patients with the inclusion of fresh produce in their diet.

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Food “Pharmacy”


The Food “Pharmacy” is where patients fill their produce prescription. It could be a box of produce from a food pantry, purchases delivered from a local grocery store or something in between.

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Ongoing Patient Support

A selection of branded PhytoRx kitchen tools serve as a visual reminder of the patient’s health goals, prescription purpose and the nutrition education they received.

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PhytoRx Coordinator

A key to organizational success and sustainability, the PhytoRx Coordinator is the lead contact for partner roles. They secure partners and oversee the program customization for their community.

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Major Objectives

  • Increase the knowledge of the medical provider about the phytochemicals (compounds in plant foods) that have shown evidence to improve various chronic diseases. Medical provider education will be provided by Cheri Granillo, through virtual or in-person training.
  • Promote sustained increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, particularly in low income areas, through produce distribution and education. Participant education materials will be provided at pick up location(s), through demonstration or tasting events, or provided virtually through short videos.
  • Improve public understanding of the importance of consumption and preparation of fruits and vegetables.
  • Encourage increased consumption of fresh produce in the community and provide follow up support for participants.
  • Increase access to nutrition research and NC Cooperative Extension services.

Case Studies

Community Partners

Building relationships with community partners is the suggested approach for the PhytoRx program. The partners in your area may be different than our example, but there are likely similar groups that can provide multi-pronged support to ensure program success. Consider these community partners:

  • Community health clinic
  • Food pantry
  • NC Cooperative Extension Service
  • Schools
  • Grocery stores or co-ops
  • Pre-professional or professional students

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