RUSSELL SPRINGS, Ky. — In partnership with the Kentucky Association of Health Plans, the Russell County Hospital is helping patients develop healthy nutrition habits as part of the “Food is Medicine” program.
A $300,000 grant provided by the KAHP, which will fund $100,000 over the next three years, will make the program possible, according to a release.
“We’re excited to be at the forefront of this important work,” said Scott Thompson, CEO of Russell County Hospital. “By connecting our patients to fresh, local foods and providing hands-on support through education and check-ins, we will empower people with the tools they need to better manage chronic conditions like diabetes.”
The pilot will initially focus on a group of outpatient clinic patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, the hospital said. They will receive disease-appropriate food boxes sourced from local farms and producers, in addition to information from the hospital’s dietitian and follow-up calls from hospital staff to reinforce good habits.
“Russell County Hospital’s program embodies what Food is Medicine is all about: practical, local solutions that strengthen health and rural economies at the same time,” said Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell, R-Ky. “Thanks to partners like the Kentucky Association of Health Plans, we’re helping Kentuckians live healthier lives while supporting our farm families — that’s the kind of investment that pays off for everyone.”
Hospital staff said they’ll track health indicators such as blood sugar levels at the start, middle and end of the pilot to assess its impact. The goal is for patients to leave educational sessions with fresh foods, recipes, basic cooking utensils and the skills to maintain a healthier lifestyle.
“Through investments like this, we are making a real difference in the health and wellbeing of Kentucky communities,” said Tom Stephens, KAHP president and CEO. “Russell County’s program builds on the momentum of Food is medicine initiatives KAHP is supporting in Fayette, Floyd, Harlan, Jefferson and Perry counties — and reflects our commitment to bringing innovative, patient-centered solutions to every corner of the Commonwealth.”
The Russell County program is part of a statewide initiative to improve health outcomes and integrate nutrition into health care.
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