Medicare and Medicaid would add food and nutrition as covered benefits

What does this do?

HR 8391 would require Medicare and Medicaid to cover food and nutrition services, including things like medically tailored meals and nutrition counseling. The Secretary of Health and Human Services would define exactly which services qualify. Both programs would be required to include this coverage 180 days after the bill is signed into law.

Who does it affect?

Medicare covers roughly 65 million Americans, mostly adults 65 and older and certain people with disabilities. Medicaid covers about 80 million lower-income Americans, including children, pregnant women, adults, and people with disabilities.

Why does it matter?

Healthcare providers who offer nutrition-related services would have a clearer path to reimbursement through Medicare and Medicaid. States that run Medicaid would be required to treat this as a mandatory benefit rather than an optional one.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Medicare pays 80% of service cost
• Patients typically owe 20%
• Medicaid states must cover as mandatory