The bill aims to establish a new section in the Code of West Virginia, specifically 9-5-34, to create a Food Is Medicine Program under the Medicaid system. This initiative is designed to address the prevalence of nutrition-related chronic diseases among Medicaid members in West Virginia, which contribute to poor health outcomes and increased healthcare costs. The program will authorize the use of nutrition-based interventions, referred to as Food Is Medicine services, to improve health outcomes and reduce unnecessary medical utilization.

The Department of Human Services, through the Bureau for Medical Services, will be responsible for permitting and encouraging Medicaid managed care organizations to offer these services. The bill outlines various allowable services, including nutrition-related case management, nutrition counseling, medically tailored meals, produce prescriptions, and grocery provisions. Additionally, the Bureau will prioritize local food producers when feasible and provide guidance to ensure effective implementation and oversight of the program. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-5-34
Committee Substitute: 9-5-34