Gaps and Opportunities in Food Insecurity Screening and Referral Practices in Rural Oncology Settings
Sutton, Gabriel
Sutton, Gabriel
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Abstract
Background: Food insecurity is prevalent among cancer patients in rural areas, where food deserts, limited transportation, and financial strain exacerbate access barriers. Aims: Determine food insecurity screening and referral practices among healthcare providers in the University of Vermont Cancer Center (UVMCC) catchment areas. Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional research design through the administration of an online survey (n?30). Participants included oncologists, physician assistants, nurses, dietitians, social workers, and palliative medicine physicians who were recruited through email outreach and flyers. Results: Nurses represented the largest professional group (n?13; 43.3%). Most respondents practiced in Vermont (n?26; 86.7%). Few clinicians reported frequent screening for food insecurity (n?9; 30.0%). Food insecurity screening was conducted based on risk factors such as homelessness or poverty (n?9; 30.0%), change in living status (n?9; 30.0%), or malnutrition/low BMI (n?8; 26.7%). 76.7% of clinicians relied on patient self-reports (n?23), with minimal use of validated tools such as the Hunger Vital Sign (n?2; 6.7%). When addressed, food-insecure patients were referred to social workers (n?22; 73.3%), dietitians (n?10; 33.3%), or a food pantry (n?11; 36.7%). Conclusions: Food insecurity screening practices in the UVMCC catchment areas were limited and inconsistent, leading to missed opportunities for early identification and timely referrals.
Description
Date
1/1/2026
Student Status
Senior (Graduating in 2026)
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Type of presentation
Poster
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DOI
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Program/Major
Nutrition and Food Science
College/School
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
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Clinical Science