Food insecurity and poor physical health have been on the rise following the end of federal pandemic-era emergency assistance programs, according to a new report by health policy experts at the Richard A. and Susan F. Smith Center for Outcomes Research at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC). The findings of the study were published in JAMA, shedding light on the impact of ending critical assistance programs on vulnerable populations.
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 led to a significant increase in food insecurity due to job losses and economic hardships. In response, Congress implemented the largest-ever temporary increase in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, providing essential support to over 40 million low-income Americans. However, when the COVID-era SNAP increase ended in March 2023, many families were left with reduced food assistance, ranging from $90 to $250 per month.
Dr. Rishi Wadhera, the associate director of the Smith Center and an associate professor at Harvard Medical School, highlighted the impact of reduced SNAP benefits on physical health. The study revealed that the decline in physical health following the reduction in SNAP benefits was comparable to the national decline observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the critical role of food assistance in maintaining overall well-being.
As Congress considers budget cuts that could further reduce SNAP benefits, it is crucial to recognize the implications on vulnerable populations. SNAP recipients, representing approximately 12% of the nation, include children, low-wage workers, older adults, and individuals with disabilities. Cutting benefits in this program could directly impact the physical health of these individuals, as indicated by the study findings.
Lead author Dr. Michael Liu highlighted the potential consequences of increased food insecurity on physical health, such as worsening diet-sensitive conditions, consuming lower-quality and more affordable food, or facing competing financial demands. The study suggests that policies affecting food assistance programs like SNAP can have far-reaching effects on the overall health of individuals and communities.
The research, published in JAMA, provides valuable insights into the intersection of food security and physical health, urging policymakers to consider the impact of budget cuts on vulnerable populations. The findings underscore the importance of maintaining and strengthening support systems like SNAP to safeguard the health and well-being of millions of Americans.
For more information, the study titled “Changes in Physical and Mental Health After the End of SNAP Emergency Allotments” can be accessed in JAMA. The research was conducted by experts at the Richard A. and Susan F. Smith Center for Outcomes Research at BIDMC, highlighting the critical link between food assistance programs, food insecurity, and overall health outcomes.
