Self-identified knowledge and practices of family physicians in Appalachian Ohio regarding food acquisition of patients

This study assessed the self-identified food security knowledge and practices of family physicians practicing in Appalachian Ohio, along with related factors, using a 17-item survey. Respondents (n=189, 42.2%) were primarily male (n=151, 79.9%), white (n=172, 91%), US citizens (n=182, 96.8%), rural inhabitants (n=137, 72.5%), and doctors of medicine (n=19, 63.3%). Only 29 (16.0%) of the family physicians strongly agreed (n=2, 1.1%) or agreed (n=27, 14.9%) that they were knowledgeable about food security. A food security practice score (n=189, 3.4±2.4) was computed using a multi-item question (Cronbach's α=0.76). Food security knowledge was related to (Kendall's τ) age (0.137, P=.028), years as a physician (0.162, P=.004), and food security practice score (0.161, P=.007). Family physicians involved in improving community food security had greater food security practice scores (n=43, 4.9±2.9), compared with those who did not (n=138, 2.9±2.0) (P<.001). Education of family physicians about food insecurity and considering food security in practice is warranted. Copyright © 2004 by the American Dietetic Association.