Understanding the Dissemination of Technology in a Food Incentive Program: A Qualitative Evaluation Applying the...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Promotion
• Food Systems Research

Background:

• Healthy Food Incentive (HFI) programs, or Nutrition Incentive programs, improve access to nutrient-dense foods.
• These programs increase purchasing power for fruits and vegetables, enhancing dietary quality, particularly for underserved populations.
• Electronic redemption systems are increasingly adopted to streamline HFI program operations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore facilitators and barriers in implementing electronic redemption systems for HFI programs at farmers' markets, farm stands, and CSAs.
• To demonstrate an evaluation process for technology dissemination using a theoretical framework.
• To identify strategies for optimizing the implementation and sustainability of electronic HFI systems.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative semi-structured interviews with staff at HFI program sites.
• Analysis of interview transcripts guided by Greenhalgh's diffusion of innovations model, adapted for a community setting.
• Identification of facilitators and barriers related to technology adoption and program operation.

Main Results:

• Six facilitators were identified, including streamlined electronic program reports.
• Ten barriers were identified, such as cumbersome registration, technological issues, customer retention risks, and insufficient capacity.
• Localization of technology dissemination and timely evaluation are crucial for success.

Conclusions:

• Effective implementation of electronic HFI systems requires addressing identified barriers through strategies like pre-registration and dedicated support.
• Utilizing theoretical frameworks aids in tailoring dissemination and optimizing health promotion practices.
• Collaboration and adaptive strategies are essential for the sustainability of nutrition incentive programs.