ST. LOUIS – Aetna Better Health of Missouri, a CVS Health company, announced today that Aetna has donated $300,000 to the Christian Hospital Foundation in support of its Food Pharmacy Program, an innovative, patient-centered initiative designed to improve health outcomes for individuals living with chronic diseases in North St. Louis County.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, chronic diseases account for 70% of all deaths in the United States each year. Poor diets and lack of access to affordable, healthy food contribute significantly to conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. The Food Pharmacy Program directly addresses these challenges by increasing access to nutritious foods and support services.
The program combines food access, health education and case management for patients managing conditions such as diabetes and congestive heart failure. Eligible participants receive a personalized prescription to an onsite food pharmacy, which includes produce grown in Christian Hospital’s garden. Patients also benefit from regular engagement with a case manager, health monitoring, monthly teaching kitchen sessions and digital tools that encourage healthy habits and independence.
“Chronic disease is one of the most pressing health challenges facing our communities, and access to nutritious food is a critical part of the solution,” said Lisa Baird, CEO of Aetna Better Health of Missouri. “We’re proud to support this program, which empowers patients with the resources and support they need to improve their health and quality of life.”
By improving access to healthy food, the program aims to reduce hospital re-admissions and emergency department visits while creating sustainable pathways to better health.
“Our clinical teams deliver exceptional care, and the Food Pharmacy Program extends that care into daily life,” said Rick Stevens, President of Christian Hospital. “With Aetna’s investment, we can advance this program and provide more nutritious food and services to support patients in managing their chronic conditions at home.”
Aetna Better Health of Missouri remains committed to collaborating with local organizations to strengthen health care access where it is needed most. Including the donation announced today, Aetna has invested over $3 million in Missouri communities since the beginning of last year.
