Southwestern Vermont Medical Center - Good Food, Good Health

What is it?

Through a collaboration between the hospital’s parent system and Meals on Wheels of Bennington County, the program assists seniors at risk of poor nutrition by providing improved access to healthy food. After a hospital stay or office visit, doctors give participants coupons for 10 free meals delivered to their homes.

Who is it for?

At-risk seniors in Bennington County

Why do they do it?

Bennington County has been identified as a food desert. Between the limited transportation available in this rural community and the mobility limitations of many seniors, it can be challenging to get to a store. Proper nutrition at home during recovery has been linked to better outcomes.

Impact

In 2013, more than 285 people participated in the program, with 73 at high risk for hospital readmission. Of those, only two returned to the hospital within 30 days, a readmission rate of 2.7 percent versus the expected 8.6 percent. Of those participants who used their coupons, 62 percent remained on the meals program.

Contact: Kevin Robinson
Communications Director
Telephone: 802-447-5003
Email: kevin.robinson@svhealthcare.org