#16 – Food is Medicine: Insights from Industry Experts

Introduction

In the latest episode of the Titans of Healthcare podcast, host Jared Taylor delves into the transformative concept of Food is Medicine with guests Brian K. Jones and Lauren Barca. Both experts bring a wealth of experience from their respective fields—Brian in dietetics and Lauren in public health nursing—to discuss the growing influence of this movement on healthcare policy and patient outcomes.

Understanding Food is Medicine

Food is Medicine is more than a buzzword; it represents a shift towards recognizing the crucial role of nutrition in preventive healthcare and disease management. Brian K. Jones, a dietitian at AssureCare, explains that this concept has gained traction through initiatives like medically tailored meals and home-delivered meal programs. These efforts aim to address social determinants of health by providing nutrient-rich foods to vulnerable populations.

Policy and Adoption

Lauren Barca, VP of Quality at 86Borders, highlights the policy advancements supporting Food is Medicine. From the SSBCI in Medicare Advantage to recent Medicaid changes in states like New York, there’s a growing acceptance of food as a vital part of healthcare benefits. Both experts agree that while policy support is crucial, the real challenge lies in effective implementation and ensuring these initiatives meet patients’ needs.

Challenges and Solutions

Despite its promise, Food is Medicine faces several hurdles. Brian points out the need for clear definitions and outcomes for different interventions, such as the specific benefits of medically tailored meals versus general nutrition education. Lauren adds that a holistic approach is necessary, one that considers basic needs like access to cooking facilities and education on food preparation.

The Role of Technology

Brian emphasizes the role of technology in supporting Food is Medicine initiatives. Modern tools can help track patient outcomes, refine interventions, and provide ongoing support. This technological support is essential for scaling these programs and proving their effectiveness to policymakers and insurers.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, both guests are optimistic about the future of Food is Medicine. They see potential in expanding care coordination roles and involving community health workers to ensure patients can access and benefit from these programs. However, they caution against extreme dietary recommendations, advocating instead for incremental, sustainable changes that respect individual circumstances and preferences.

Conclusion

The conversation with Brian and Lauren underscores the importance of Food is Medicine in reshaping healthcare. By focusing on patient-centered approaches and leveraging technology, the healthcare industry can better address the complex needs of patients and promote healthier lifestyles.