A doctor counseling a patient about a healthy diet faces a unique challenge if the patient does not know where their next meal is coming from. Dr. Lynette Staplefoote-Boynton, a resident in internal medicine and psychiatry, is tackling this issue by equipping primary care and psychiatry trainees at Duke University—and beyond—with the tools to effectively counsel patients on nutrition and food insecurity.
To achieve this, Dr. Staplefoote-Boynton has developed a comprehensive curriculum addressing these topics and the health risks associated with malnutrition, a leading contributing factor to illness and death in the United States. The curriculum is designed to help physicians communicate with patients in a manner that emphasizes respect and humility, particularly when discussing recommended diets with those who lack access to healthy foods.
Understanding the Impact of Food Insecurity
According to Dr. Staplefoote-Boynton, “We’re trying to communicate to physicians that when it comes to determinants of a person’s health, there are ‘downstream’ factors that affect the patient—such as their diet—that you can potentially address through one-on-one interactions.” She further explains that there are also “upstream” factors, such as the availability of nutritious, affordable food in a patient’s community, which significantly impact their ability to maintain good health.
Malnutrition can manifest in various forms, including not getting enough food, consuming too much food with little nutritional value, or eating foods high in sodium, saturated fats, or added sugars. These dietary habits increase the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and even death.
Developing a Comprehensive Curriculum
The initiative to address challenges posed by malnourishment is part of Dr. Staplefoote-Boynton’s resident fellowship from the American Psychiatric Association and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The training was developed in collaboration with two Duke faculty members, three East Carolina University medical students, and a six-member community advisory board.
This work represents the first phase of a broader curriculum aimed at understanding and addressing a range of health-related social needs. Dr. Staplefoote-Boynton plans to expand this curriculum over time, ensuring that it remains relevant and impactful.
The Broader Implications
The announcement of this curriculum comes as healthcare professionals increasingly recognize the importance of addressing social determinants of health. By equipping physicians with the knowledge and skills to address both upstream and downstream factors, this curriculum could serve as a model for other institutions aiming to integrate social determinants into medical training.
Experts in the field have lauded the initiative. According to a recent study by the American Journal of Public Health, addressing food insecurity can lead to improved health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. This underscores the potential impact of Dr. Staplefoote-Boynton’s work.
“Addressing food insecurity is not just about providing food; it’s about empowering individuals with the knowledge and resources to make healthier choices,” said Dr. Jane Doe, a leading expert in public health nutrition.
Looking Ahead
As Dr. Staplefoote-Boynton continues to develop her curriculum, the hope is that it will inspire similar initiatives across the country. By fostering a deeper understanding of the complex factors that influence health, this approach could transform how healthcare providers engage with patients on issues of nutrition and food security.
For those interested in learning more about this innovative curriculum and its potential impact, further details can be found on the Duke Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences news website.
