Which outcome is a goal of community nutrition programs related to healthcare utilization?

• A. Decrease avoidable admissions to hospital/PAC settings
• B. Increase emergency room visits
• C. Increase length of hospital stays
• D. Decrease access to primary care

Answer: (A)

Reducing avoidable hospital and post-acute care admissions is a key goal of community nutrition programs. When nutrition is monitored and supported in the community—through screenings, education, meal services, and strong links to primary care and follow-up—frail older adults are less prone to malnutrition, dehydration, infections, and rapid health declines that trigger acute care use. Effective nutrition interventions help manage chronic diseases, support wound healing, and prevent readmissions, which lowers unnecessary emergency department visits and lengthier hospital stays. Conversely, increasing emergency room visits, extending hospital stays, or reducing access to primary care would undermine the aim of these programs by signaling unmet needs and worse overall health trajectories.