A growing number of healthcare providers and payers are promoting healthy food to prevent, treat and manage disease. And Illinois’ Medicaid program is set to push efforts further forward with the recent approval of a federal waiver aimed at addressing social determinants of health.

But good nutrition isn’t accessible to all, including some communities who could benefit the most. Funding, limited vendors and a lack of provider training are among the obstacles standing in the way.

Meanwhile, an incoming new federal administration is injecting fresh uncertainty around food and other health policies.

Health News Illinois is assembling a panel of experts to outline what’s driving the food as medicine movement and discuss what’s next.

Panelists:

• Julia Bassett, Director, Food is Medicine – Veggie Rx Program, Rush University Medical Center
• Dr. Wayne Detmer, Chief Clinical Officer, Lawndale Christian Health Center
• Tiffany Davis, Executive Director of Quality Improvement and Health Equity, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois
• Gabriela Moroney, Senior Policy Advisor for the Division of Medical Programs, Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services
• Sana Syal, Senior Director of Partner Services and Support, Greater Chicago Food Depository

The 2024 Health News Illinois Event Series is sponsored by:

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois

Illinois Health and Hospital Association

Illinois Primary Health Care Association

Novo Nordisk

Health Management Associates

Springfield Clinic