Food and nutrition insecurity affect millions of U.S. households and is linked to adverse and costly health outcomes, including higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease. Together, these diet-related conditions drive more than $1.1 trillion in annual health care costs nationwide, placing significant strain on Medicaid programs and health systems.

In response, states are exploring ways to incorporate healthy food into patient care alongside traditional medical services. This approach — known as Food Is Medicine — encompasses a range of services and interventions. When strategically combined with existing nutrition assistance programs, Food is Medicine has been shown to decrease emergency department use, lower costs, and support long-term healthy eating for improved health outcomes.

This brief from the Center for Health Care Strategies introduces a framework for coordinated cross-sector action to address food and nutrition insecurity. It highlights key policy levers, state authorities, best practices, and real-world examples for implementing food and nutrition strategies across Medicaid and other state systems.