‘Food Is Medicine’ Programs May Help Patients, but ROI Isn’t Always Clear
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Apr 18, 2025
Recent studies in major medical journals have highlighted the effectiveness and potential cost savings associated with Food Is Medicine (FIM) initiatives such as providing medically tailored meals (MTMs) and nutritious foods to improve people’s health. However, Shelby Harrington, an Avalere Health managing director, tells AIS Health that the coverage of FIM programs is a “huge patchwork” and varies widely depending on the insurance type, with Medicare Advantage and managed Medicaid plans much more likely than commercial plans to offer the benefit.
Harrington notes that FIM programs are most common in value-based care payment models, where providers have a financial incentive to ensure patients remain healthy and prevent complications. She adds that some MA plans offer FIM as a supplemental benefit, while some states have adopted coverage for Medicaid members, particularly those who have trouble paying for healthy food or have chronic conditions.
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