Increasing prevalence of diet-related health conditions indicates the concept of Food as Medicine (FAM) is relevant now more than ever. FAM is defined as strategies or interventions that are coordinated with the delivery of healthcare to provide access to nutritious foods focused on prevention, management, or treatment of disease.  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.

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.  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. Read the full report.