A new research study led by our PHFE WIC Research and Evaluation team members, Shannon Whaley, and Christopher E. Anderson, shows that federal waivers issued by the USDA have made remote WIC services possible during the COVID-19 pandemic. Physical presence waivers removed requirements for in-person clinic visits at enrollment or recertification.
-PHFE WIC participation increased 24% between February and June, concurrent with increases of 21% and 14% for WIC participation in LA County.
-The rates of daily initial certification and recertification increased by 27% and 24%, respectively, after transitioning to remote-only service.
The study is published in the American Journal of Public Health. Read the abstract and access the full study: The Importance of Federal Waivers and Technology in Ensuring Access to WIC During COVID-19
