Oral

Inequities in healthy food access can contribute to pervasive health disparities. The highest rates of obesity are found among individuals who live in low-income communities with food environments that are characterized by few grocery stores relative to the number of fast food restaurants and convenience stores. Addressing access to fresh and healthy food in underserved communities is imperative to improving health outcomes. A number of innovative strategies have been developed to address healthy food access. Topics in this session include the advantages and disadvantages of healthy food financing initiatives, the influence of recently-introduced supermarkets on shopping and food consumption among residents of a low-income area, the benefits of an online grocery delivery program to bring healthy and affordable food options to low-income neighborhoods, and the challenges and successes of implementing corner store makeovers in low-income communities.

Session Objectives: 1. Describe four retail strategies to address improve fresh food access in underserved communities; 2. Compare interventions for improving access to healthy food in underserved areas; and 3. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of various retail strategies for increasing healthy food access and purchasing.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)