Healthcare (Medicaid)

SB 562 would establish a Food Is Medicine Program within West Virginia's Medicaid system, directly affecting Medicaid members with nutrition-related chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. The bill authorizes coverage for specific nutrition services - including counseling, medically tailored meals, and grocery support - to improve health outcomes and reduce costly medical care. It requires Medicaid managed care organizations to prioritize partnerships with local West Virginia food producers when feasible. The program aims to lower long-term healthcare costs by addressing diet-related health issues through preventive nutrition support.