EPFH Joins Statewide Effort to Prioritize "Food Is Medicine" Solutions.

• October 03, 2024
• EPFH

El Pasoans Fighting Hunger proudly stands with the Feeding Texas network of 20 food banks and over 70 partner organizations to announce our commitment to advancing "Food Is Medicine" (FIM) solutions during the 2025 Texas legislative session. Food insecurity is deeply tied to health outcomes, and by implementing FIM strategies, we aim to use food-based interventions to help prevent, manage, and treat specific health conditions.

“Nutrition and health are deeply connected,” said Celia Cole, CEO of Feeding Texas. “Individuals facing food insecurity are more likely to experience adverse health effects and face barriers to accessing necessary health services. Food insecurity is associated with higher rates of chronic and diet-related diseases. When someone is sick, having to choose between food and treatment can lead to serious complications. Understanding this connection is crucial for developing comprehensive strategies to improve both food security and healthcare outcomes in our state.”

The passage of HB 1575, signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott in June 2023, represents a significant step forward. This new law acknowledges the non-medical factors that affect health outcomes, particularly for pregnant Medicaid beneficiaries. The bill mandates that these beneficiaries be screened for non-medical needs and provided with case management services that connect them to community resources. Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) in Texas have begun utilizing screening questions developed by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to assess these needs.

Through this legislation, Texas lawmakers have recognized the importance of addressing the non-medical drivers of health (NMDoH). HB 1575 enhances Medicaid’s ability to identify and address issues like nutrition, housing, and transportation that directly affect patient health. This bill, sponsored by Rep. Lacey Hull and Sen. Lois Kolkhorst, marks a promising step towards improving healthcare outcomes and reducing food insecurity across the state.

At El Pasoans Fighting Hunger, we are committed to being part of the solution. By advocating for FIM programs and helping to address the root causes of food insecurity, we believe that we can improve the health and well-being of our community. Together, we can create a future where no one in El Paso must choose between food and their health.