Howard County Health Department: Digitizing Health-Based Food Access
How Howard County Health Department partnered with iQpay to modernize their health-based food access program, improving community health outcomes through digital solutions.
The challenge
The Howard County Health Department sought to create a streamlined system that would effectively manage food prescription benefits while ensuring easy access for community members.
The solution
Through collaboration with iQpay, Howard County Health Department implemented a comprehensive digital food prescription program.
The result
The digital transformation succeeded in creating a more efficient system for both staff and participants, while maintaining program integrity and expanding access to healthy food options.
Background
The Howard County Health Department faced the challenge of modernizing and expanding their health-based food access program to improve community health outcomes. They needed an efficient system that would align with their mission while better serving program participants.
Challenge
The department sought to create a streamlined system that would effectively manage food prescription benefits while ensuring easy access for community members. They needed a solution that would support their public health initiatives while making healthy food more accessible to program participants.
Solution
Through collaboration with iQpay, Howard County Health Department implemented a comprehensive digital food prescription program. The system features carefully designed digital cards for benefit distribution, specific redemption guidelines for healthy food options, and streamlined management capabilities that simplify both administration and program oversight.
Implementation
The program rollout included several key features: access to local participating retail partners, integration with ongoing health education programs, and support for high-need areas. The implementation incorporated direct participant education and support services to ensure successful program adoption.
Results
Program administrator Maria Hicks noted the significant improvements in ease of use from an administrative perspective. The digital transformation succeeded in creating a more efficient system for both staff and participants, while maintaining program integrity and expanding access to healthy food options.
Impact
The digital program transformation has enhanced Howard County Health Department's ability to serve their community in several ways. It has improved participant engagement in essential nutrition services, streamlined benefit distribution processes, and strengthened connections between health care providers and food access initiatives. The program has demonstrated success in making healthy food more accessible while supporting broader public health objectives.
Organization
Howard County Health Department
Industry
Healthcare
Challenge
Needed to modernize and expand their health-based food access program
iQpay products used
- Digital payment cards
- Program management dashboard
- Benefit tracking system
About Howard County Health Department
The Howard County Health Department is dedicated to promoting and protecting the health of all people who live, work, and play in Howard County, Maryland. They offer a wide range of health services and programs aimed at improving community health outcomes and addressing public health challenges.