From Policy to Plate: Surveying Food as Medicine Initiatives at Elevance Health
Results from a survey of Food as Medicine (FAM) strategies implemented by Elevance Health-affiliated health plans found 89 FAM programs operating in 18 states and Washington, D.C. supporting the food and nutritional needs of a diverse population.
FAM is defined by strategies and interventions, coupled with healthcare delivery, to address food insecurity and diet-related conditions. FAM strategies include interventions such as medically tailored meals, grocery assistance, and nutrition security programs, and they represent health plans’ broadening view of how health is defined.
This brief summarizes Elevance Health’s efforts—throughout the U.S. and across multiple lines of business (commercial, Medicaid, Medicare)—to advance members’ access to food and nutritionally appropriate meals. Individuals experiencing food insecurity, those who are pregnant or have recently given birth, and individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes are some of the members who are specifically served by FAM programs.
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