Fruit and Vegetable Prescription (FVRx) Program

The Prescription for Health program at Aspirus Health was launched in 2016 to support better nutrition and overall well-being. Reports on Wisconsin’s health status indicate that there is room for improvement in fruit and vegetable consumption. Eating at least five cups of fruits and vegetables daily is a proven way to help prevent type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.

This program enables health care providers and staff to assist eligible patients in increasing their fruit and vegetable intake by connecting them with local resources, particularly farmers’ markets.

Prescription Program Participating Markets

The below listings are subject to change. Updates will be made as information becomes available.

How it Works

• Step 1:
 Hospital establishes funded prescription program (community benefit)
• Step 2:
 Medical providers and staff give prescriptions to identified patients
• Step 3:
 Patients bring prescriptions to participating markets to purchase produce

When You Receive a Prescription for Health (FVRx), You’ll Get:

• Helpful tips on buying, storing, and enjoying fresh produce
• Easy ways to add more fruits and veggies to your family’s meals
• Tokens to use at participating farmers’ markets for local produce
  

What to Expect After Enrolling

1. Hold on to your FVRx prescription: Once you receive your Prescription for Health, be sure to keep it in a secure place. When you’re ready, visit a participating farmers’ market near you. A full list of locations can be found at the top of this page.
2. Make it a family outing: We encourage you to bring your children along! Farmers’ markets are excellent learning environments for kids—they can meet local growers, ask questions, and even choose the fruits and vegetables they’d like to try. This hands-on experience helps foster healthy eating habits at home.
3. Redeem your prescription: At the market, look for the booth marked “FVRx Redeemed Here.” Present your prescription to receive your Prescription for Health tokens.
4. Shop for fresh, local produce: Use your tokens to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from participating vendors. Market producers are familiar with the program and will assist you in using your tokens with ease.
5. Make the most of your produce at home: Not sure what to do with your fruits and veggies? Visit the resources on the right side of this page for recipes, storage tips, and guidance on incorporating more fresh produce into your family’s meals.
   

We hope this program inspires your family to explore local farmers’ markets together and sparks a lasting interest in enjoying more fruits and vegetables. Let this be a meaningful step toward a healthier lifestyle. If you have questions, please connect with your health care provider—they’re here to support you every step of the way.