Feb. 11, 2019
Health Care Services Corp. and the Blue Cross Blue Shield Institute are launching a six-month pilot program, called foodQ, for healthy meal delivery to food deserts in Chicago and Dallas.
The program helps consumers buy healthy, affordable meals in certain zip codes, where HCSC provides coverage, and where consumers lack access to affordable fresh foods, according to a press release.
Consumers can sign up for $10 monthly subscription plans, which include free delivery of a buy-one-get-one free meal. Non subscribers can pay $10 per meal, plus a $6 delivery fee.
The launch began in 25 zip codes in Chicago and will be offered in 15 zip codes in Dallas in April. The BCBS Institute developed a mobile-optimized site for the program, selected zip codes using data on social and environmental factors and established relationships with the Kitchfix in Chicago and the Front Porch Pantry in Dallas to prepare and deliver meals.
"Food deserts are one of the key social determinants of health, impacting millions of Americans," said Manika Turnbull, HCSC vice president and community health and economic impact officer, in the release. "With this program we are meeting people where they live to provide access, affordable pricing and education than can influence healthy behaviors, reduce health disparities and improve their quality of life."
Dr. Trent Haywood, BCBS Institute president, said high rates of obesity and diabetes need to be addressed through alternative means, including improving diet and other measures, to reduce hospitalization.
Users can enter lunch and dinner selections into the mobile-optimized foodQ website, as well as payment information, and time and date of delivery. The order is confirmed with a text message and participants will be notified when meals are en route and delivered.
Participants will be surveyed during the pilot period to measure how well the meal service correlates with reduced emergency room visits and hospital stays.
Health Care Services Corp., is the nation’s largest customer owned insurer, and nation’s fourth-largest overall, with 16 million members.
Topics: Mobile Payments, Restaurants
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