Opinion: Colorado health care system should include food as medicine

March 10, 2026 - 17:44

A growing movement within Colorado advocates for a fundamental shift in health care, proposing that nutrition be formally integrated into medical treatment plans. Proponents argue that building a sustainable approach to chronic disease requires collaboration among health providers, nonprofits, policymakers, and community partners to address food insecurity and poor diet as root causes of illness.

The concept, often termed "Food as Medicine," includes programs like medically tailored meals and produce prescriptions. These initiatives are designed to help manage conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension directly through nutritional intervention. Evidence suggests such strategies can lead to better health outcomes, reduced hospital visits, and significant long-term cost savings for the state's health care system.

Advocates emphasize that this is not simply about distributing food, but about creating a structured, evidence-based component of patient care. They point to the critical need for systemic support, including insurance reimbursement models and stronger partnerships with local agriculture, to make these programs accessible and effective for all Coloradans. The push represents a broader understanding that health is profoundly influenced by the food patients can access and afford, positioning nutritional support as a vital part of the state's health care future.