For some qualifying Medicaid members, a program may include access to medically appropriate home-delivered meals
By Shaina Zazzaro
Many New Yorkers are still unaware that Medicaid may help connect eligible members with nutrition support through New York State’s Section 1115 Waiver and Social Care Network program.
The program is designed to address health-related social needs such as food insecurity, housing instability, transportation barriers and other challenges that can directly affect a person’s health.
For some qualifying Medicaid members, “Enhanced Services” may include access to medically appropriate home-delivered meals.
Who should consider getting screened?
Medicaid members who are pregnant or recently postpartum, have chronic health conditions, experience frequent hospital or emergency-room visits, struggle to consistently afford nutritious food, have difficulty shopping or cooking, receive health home services or are dealing with housing instability may have needs worth discussing during a screening.
It is important to understand that having Medicaid does not automatically mean someone qualifies for meals. Screening is the first step. The member’s Medicaid coverage, health needs and social needs are reviewed and eligibility is determined through the Social Care Network process.
Food insecurity can also look different than many people realize. It may mean worrying that groceries will run out, not having enough money to replace food, being unable to safely prepare meals, or struggling to obtain foods that support a medical condition.
The most important message is simple: do not assume you will or will not qualify. Get screened.
Effortlessly Healthy helps connect Medicaid members with the approved screening process and provides meal services to eligible members.
To learn more or request a screening, visit effortlesslyhealthy.com.