Overcoming Food Insecurity: An Interview with Physician Assistants
As PA Week concludes, The Clinical Advisor speaks with two dedicated Physician Assistants (PAs) from Sioux City, Nebraska, who aim to alleviate food insecurity by cultivating fresh fruits and vegetables for their patients. Jill Bundy, PA-C, MPAS, and David Faldmo, PA-C, MPAS, both contribute their skills at the Siouxland Community Health Center.
Addressing Medical Conditions with Lifestyle Changes
PA Faldmo: In our society, lifestyle habits often contribute to metabolic disorders. We serve many patients with conditions like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and fatty liver disease. Detecting these symptoms early and guiding patients towards healthier lifestyles is crucial in preventing these diseases.
PA Bundy: A significant part of our work involves patient education. Many patients are unaware of the health risks associated with metabolic disorders.
What Motivated the Decision to Cultivate Produce for Patients?
PA Faldmo and PA Bundy: We were instrumental in developing a social determinant of health screening tool with the National Association of Community Health Centre. This tool is now widely used. Part of our process involves screening our patients for food insecurity.
It was the discovery of the pressing need for food security among our patients that spurred us to start growing produce. We educate our patients on the benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, but without access to fresh produce, it’s nearly impossible for them to follow these recommendations.
Partnership with Voices for Food
To meet the demand for healthy food options, we collaborated with Voices for Food. We believed that joining forces with this organization would actively assist our patients in achieving healthier lifestyles through their dietary choices.
Addressing Health Challenges Linked to Food Insecurity
PA Faldmo and PA Bundy: Many medical disorders are tied to metabolic health. Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are linked to our diet and lifestyle. Excessive weight can also lead to orthopedic issues.
Additionally, the psychological implications of food insecurity can be significant. It is often associated with challenges in transportation or housing security, leading to enormous stress for patients and their families.
Improving Health Through Nutrition Education and Food Provision
PA Bundy and Faldmo: Offering fresh vegetables and educating patients on the importance of a healthy diet can help manage metabolic disorders. We also encourage patients to participate in our weight management program, which provides in-depth education on living a healthy lifestyle. Alongside this, we have a diabetes prevention program for those at risk of the disease.
Key Takeaways from the Weight Loss and Diabetes Programs
PA Bundy and Faldmo: We balance our use of weight loss medicines with education and lifestyle changes. Our aim is to tackle underlying issues causing overweight or obesity and metabolic unfitness.
What Valuable Insights Have Been Gained Through Patient Interaction?
PA Faldmo: We should never underestimate our patients. Many are willing to make lifestyle changes, not just rely on prescribed medicines. This has been a vital lesson.
PA Bundy: It’s crucial to see patients as whole individuals. Addressing mental health needs, ensuring a safe living environment, and removing barriers to medical care are all part of providing comprehensive care.
Indeed, the most pressing issue may not be a medical one, but may relate to the patient’s living conditions or their need to feel safe.
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