Empowering Patients Through Food-as-Medicine: WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals' Innovative Approach to Chronic Disease Management

In a groundbreaking initiative, WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals has partnered with FARMacy WV and Crichfield Farms to revolutionize the way patients with chronic diseases manage their conditions. By prescribing fresh, locally-grown produce and providing hands-on cooking demonstrations, this program is empowering individuals to take control of their health through the power of food-as-medicine.

Unlocking the Healing Potential of Locally-Sourced Produce

Addressing the Chronic Disease Epidemic in West Virginia

West Virginia has long been plagued by high rates of chronic illnesses, including type 2 diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and heart disease. This alarming trend has prompted healthcare providers to seek innovative solutions that address the root causes of these conditions. WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals recognized the need for a comprehensive approach that not only treats the symptoms but also empowers patients to make sustainable lifestyle changes.

Prescribing Fresh Produce for Improved Health Outcomes

The partnership between WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals, FARMacy WV, and Crichfield Farms aims to make fresh, locally-sourced produce more accessible to patients with chronic diseases. Through a 15-week program, eligible individuals will receive a weekly prescription for a one-week supply of fruits and vegetables, which they can pick up at a local farmer's market. This approach not only ensures that patients have access to nutritious foods but also encourages them to incorporate these ingredients into their daily lives.

Empowering Patients with Hands-On Cooking Demonstrations

The program goes beyond simply providing produce; it also offers hands-on cooking demonstrations led by WVU Extension educators. For the first six weeks, patients will have the opportunity to learn new recipes and cooking techniques, enabling them to transform the fresh ingredients into delicious and healthy meals. This interactive approach ensures that patients not only receive the produce but also acquire the skills and knowledge to incorporate these foods into their daily routines.

Monitoring Progress and Measuring Impact

To track the effectiveness of the program, WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals will closely monitor patients' progress. At the beginning and end of the 15-week initiative, patients will undergo lab tests to measure their HgA1c and lipid levels, providing valuable insights into the impact of the dietary changes. Additionally, physicians will administer surveys to gather information about participants' food insecurities, eating habits, produce preparation, and overall consumption.

Expanding the Reach of Food-as-Medicine Across West Virginia

While the program is currently being piloted in Kanawha County, the goal is to expand it statewide. WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals is excited to be the first to launch this initiative in the Charleston area, with plans to offer it annually. By leveraging the expertise of FARMacy WV and the resources of Crichfield Farms, the program aims to empower patients across West Virginia to take control of their health through the transformative power of food-as-medicine.

Unlocking the Healing Potential of Locally-Sourced Produce

The partnership between WVU Medicine Thomas Hospitals, FARMacy WV, and Crichfield Farms represents a groundbreaking approach to chronic disease management. By prescribing fresh, locally-grown produce and providing hands-on cooking demonstrations, this program is empowering patients to make sustainable lifestyle changes and improve their overall health. As the initiative expands across West Virginia, it has the potential to transform the way healthcare providers address the chronic disease epidemic, one plate at a time.