Aspirus Health Expands Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program

WAUSAU, Wis. – Residents of seven communities in the Aspirus Health service area now have additional access to fresh produce at their local farmers market thanks to this year’s expansion of the Aspirus Fruit and Vegetable Prescription (FVRx) Program.  

Aspirus FVRx was created as a medically based intervention to support Aspirus patients. From farm to table, the fresh produce at your local farmers market is one of the healthiest ways to get all your nutrients.  

The new additions to the Aspirus FVRx program are Park Falls, Marathon City, Owen, Crandon and the Stevens Point Outdoor market in Wisconsin; Central Hillside and Lincoln Park markets in Duluth and also The Market at Burlington Station in Two Harbors, Minnesota. With previously established locations in Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, approximately 30 community-based farmers markets now offer access to the program and support local farmers.  

Eligible patients are identified by the Care Coordination Team at Aspirus facilities in participating communities as having a need. The program is intended for individuals with diagnosable chronic conditions, a need for food access support, and patients working with a care team member on healthier eating. Eligible patients are given a “prescription” to use at one of many participating farmers markets in the Aspirus service area. 

“We know that a diet that’s rich in fruits and veggies is healthy for us, but not everyone has the same access to these items,” says Kari Due, Aspirus Community Health Improvement Specialist. “This program is designed to place nutritious foods in the hands of more families in our communities and as a bonus, buying them at a farmers market is a fantastic opportunity to support our local farmers.” 

Aspirus Health is also a member of the Central Wisconsin Farmers Market Collaborative. The collaborative is supporting markets by helping plan and create sustainability and increase access by bringing additional opportunities such as EBT machines.  

Launched in 2016, the FVRx program at Aspirus Health strengthens the connection between clinical care and community resources. By empowering individuals to make healthier food choices, the program aims to drive measurable improvements in overall health outcomes. Eating at least five cups of fruits and vegetables daily is a proven way to help prevent type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. 

“This program enables health care providers and staff to assist eligible patients in increasing their fruit and vegetable intake by connecting them with local resources, particularly farmers’ markets,” said Due.  

August 3-9 is designated as National Farmers Market Week; this annual celebration highlights the vital role farmers markets play in our nation’s food system.  

 For the full list of participating farmers market locations and more information on the Aspirus FVRx program, visit https://www.aspirus.org/fvrx-program.