PARKERSBURG — Highmark Health Options West Virginia (HHOWV) and Foodsmart announced a new program to bring personalized nutrition care and food support to members across the state.

The venture will initially focus on those with chronic conditions including, but not exclusive to, sickle cell anemia, hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, pre-diabetes and obesity, as well as maternal health populations. The program launched July 1, according to a press release from Highmark Health Options.

In West Virginia, where more than 40% of adults are living with obesity and approximately 12% have been diagnosed with diabetes, the burden of diet-related disease is among the highest in the nation, and a major driver of health care costs across the state, according to the press release.

At the same time, many communities, particularly in rural areas, face persistent challenges with food access, affordability, and transportation, with some counties designated as food deserts. The result is a structural gap: even when members receive nutrition guidance, they often lack the support needed to turn that guidance into consistent, healthy meals.

Through this new program, HHOWV is expanding access to nutrition-centered care as part of its broader commitment to improving member health and affordability.

Unlike traditional programs that only provide nutritional education, eligible HHOWV members can join Foodsmart’s comprehensive Foodcare platform, which connects members with registered dietitians for personalized, condition-specific care, while also giving them tools that make it easier to plan, shop for, and prepare healthier meals.

Members enrolled through HHOWV will receive:

– One-on-one virtual nutrition counseling tailored to their health conditions

– Personalized meal planning aligned with clinical goals and cultural preferences

– Education and support around food security

– Access to a curated food marketplace powered by partners like Instacart, enabling members to order dietitian-recommended groceries and meals from trusted local and national providers

– Ongoing support to help build lasting, sustainable habits while improving access to affordable, nutritious food

“In West Virginia, we know that improving health outcomes requires more than clinical care, it means addressing the root causes that shape people’s daily lives,” said Jason Landers, president, Highmark Health Options West Virginia. “Too often, members face barriers and a sense that better health isn’t within reach. Our program with Foodsmart is changing that by bringing practical, personalized nutrition support directly to our members and giving them the tools, confidence, and opportunity to take control of their health.”

The nutrition program reflects a shared commitment to improving health outcomes across West Virginia by addressing not just medical needs, but also health related social barriers, the everyday factors that influence health.

“Healthy food and personalized nutrition support shouldn’t be out of reach for the people who need it most,” said Kurt Knight, chief executive officer for Foodsmart. “The healthcare system has recognized the importance of nutrition without having the infrastructure to deliver it effectively. Through our work with Highmark Health Options West Virginia, we’re closing that gap by making it easier for members to access the nutrition care they need to manage chronic conditions and improve their health in a sustainable way.”