by Lauran Larson, Senior Manager of Food and Health
Oklahoma has taken a significant step toward integrating nutrition into healthcare with the passage of Senate Bill 806, known as the Food is Medicine Act. This legislation recognizes the critical role that access to nutritious food plays in preventing and managing chronic diseases, particularly for those enrolled in Medicaid.
What SB 806 Does
Authored by Senator Adam Pugh and Representative Anthony Moore, SB 806 establishes the Food is Medicine Act, directing the Oklahoma Health Care Authority to seek federal approval to expand nutrition supports within the state’s Medicaid program. The nutrition supports may include, but are not limited to, nutrition counseling, meals or pantry stocking, nutrition prescriptions, and grocery provisions. The bill also directs the Oklahoma State Department of Education to provide technical assistance related to the Oklahoma Farm to School Program.
Legislative Support
SB 806 garnered bipartisan support, with co-authors including Representatives Ajay Pittman, Trish Ranson, John Waldron, Jared Deck, Ellyn Hefner, Arturo Alonso-Sandoval, and Ellen Pogemiller. The bill passed the Senate unanimously (45-0) and the House with a strong majority (76-8), reflecting widespread recognition of the importance of nutrition in healthcare. SB 806 was then signed by the Governor.
Next Steps
Upon enactment, the Oklahoma Health Care Authority will explore options for obtaining federal approval to implement the expanded nutrition services. There are multiple implementation pathways which include options such as a State Plan Amendment, Section 1115 Demonstration, and In Lieu of Services. These options allow for Medicaid to provide coverage for nutrition supports. Any option will improve health outcomes for Medicaid recipients by addressing food insecurity and promoting better nutrition.
Why This Matters
Integrating nutrition services into Medicaid is a proactive approach to healthcare that addresses root causes of chronic illness. States like North Carolina have seen incredible success and cost savings with similar programs by ensuring that people with greater health and nutrition needs have access to healthy food and nutrition education. Oklahoma is working to reduce healthcare costs and improve quality of life for its residents.
For more information on SB 806 and its implications for food security in Oklahoma, please refer to the full bill text and legislative history.
To learn about the Oklahoma Food is Medicine Coalition and existing programs in Oklahoma, reach out to Lauran Larson.