The N.A.R.M. (Nutritional Aid and Resource Map) Network is a resource referral innovation (Rooted from previous NARM developments) that allows “Helpers” (e.g. Physicians, Nurses, Social Workers) to provide “Seekers” (Those experiencing food insecurity), with referral access to Charitable Food Programs to reduce food insecurity. Clinicians within low-income outpatient clinics reported the negative impact that unmet social needs had on clinic visit times, complexity of treatment, and the deterioration of emotional wellness within healthcare providers, leading to increased burn out among providers. When services addressing unmet social needs were provided in the clinic, burnout was buffered, efficiency improved, and morale increased across the care team. (Kung 2019). NARM, by addressing food insecurity, has the potential to reduce burnout reported by “Helpers” by increasing clinical efficiency and providing “Helpers” with feedback about their client’s access to food. Organizations that employ “Helpers” are the anticipated early adopters of the NARM and include Healthcare Agencies (e.g., outpatient and occupational clinics), Social Service Organizations (e.g., Counseling Centers, Educational Facilities), and Community Organizations (e.g., Non-Profit Organizations, Federal assistance programs). The N.A.R.M Network is being developed as a multi-platform resource referral application supported by NARM’s innovative referral pathway. This process begins with the ‘Helper’ receiving intake of the “Seeker,” resulting in the coordination of a referral request and subsequent order fulfillment from a Charitable Food Program. Then, through the utilization of Food Delivery Services, such as UberEATS, DoorDash, and USPS, the NARM will deliver Direct-To-Client food. Once delivered, order confirmation closes the loop by passively relaying outcomes back to the “Helper” for evaluation and/or integration into an Electronic Health Record (EHR) system. Through these methods, the goal of the NARM is to lower the expenses related to food-insecurity, reduce the burden on ‘Helpers’ when managing food-insecure clients, and utilize technology to coordinate community resources to reduce food insecurity and improve the health of the community.
The NARM will be monetized through subscription and pay-per-function models. “Helpers” will gain access to the NARM software through an annual subscription (up to $5,000: $417/mo.) that is offered on a sliding-scale for agencies with limited funding. Anticipated pay-per-functions include Statistical Analysis, EHR Integration, and Direct-To-Client services.
Email: Okbr223@uky.edu
Project Owner
Omar Brown