National Health Policy Forum

Background Paper

Date: AUGUST 14, 2003
Title:
WIC Reauthorization: Opportunities
for Improving the Nutritional Status
of Women, Infants, and Children
PDF Doc.
Authors: Harriette B. Fox, Margaret A. McManus & Harry J. Schmidt, Consultants
Summary: This paper examines the main reform issues affecting the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), which is coming up for reauthorization this year. The paper provides background information on the WIC program, including its dramatic growth in participation and funding. It also reviews WIC’s link to health care and its impact on health outcomes. A series of considerations for WIC’s future are raised, including food package and program eligibility changes, nutrition education strategies to reduce obesity, financial risks and health consequences of relying on infant formula rebates, and new opportunities for research and demonstration.