PWA1 - Community-Driven Policies to Advance Food for Health: State Perspectives in Action

Session Description: Health Centers serve a large population of high-risk patients who are more likely to suffer from a disproportionate array of chronic conditions such as asthma, chronic lower respiratory disease, diabetes, heart disease, hypertension and obesity. Research has shown that dietary practices and conditions contribute to the development of many chronic conditions and lead to more costly health care. Health centers as trusted providers have looked for innovations within their communities to decrease these rates.

Health Centers across the country recognize the impact of food access and food system innovation. Join this session to learn how health centers, PCAs, and HCCNs are leading community-driven “food is health” initiatives that improve health outcomes and address food insecurity.

The session will provide framing on NACHC’s role in advancing food is health nationwide, working in partnership with the global healthcare company Abbott.

The Policy Team will outline federal and state policy trends, funding streams, and regulatory considerations impacting these initiatives.

Participants will also hear state-level perspectives from Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center (HI) and Jessie Trice Community Health System (FL). Each will share how they have embedded Food Is Health into care delivery, engaged community voices, navigated emerging policy landscapes, and applied culturally responsive approaches to ensure program success.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage leaders representing states with varied policy environments and explore how community engagement and culturally responsive approaches contribute to program success. Join this session for practical strategies and resources to help health centers position themselves as leaders and partners in advancing whole-person care!