Foods Role in Healthcare with Holly Freishtat

In this episode of the Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis engages with Holly Freishtat, the Senior Director of Feeding Change at the Milken Institute, in a profound discussion about the transformative role of food in healthcare. Holly shares her extensive experience in the food system, policy making, and her work on pioneering food as medicine initiatives. Delve into how food prescriptions, medically tailored meals, and nutrition security are reshaping the landscape of healthcare and community well-being. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of nutrition, health policy, and community empowerment.

1. Introduction

Welcome and introduction of guest Holly Freishtat by host Corey Dion Lewis.

Overview of the episode's focus on the role of food in medicine and health.

2. Holly Freistadt's Background

Holly discusses her 25-year career journey in the food system, from farming to food policy.

The passion driving her work in food and its influence on health.

3. From Local Projects to Policy

Insights into Holly’s work in Baltimore, addressing food access and policy.

Evolution of her career towards health policy.

4. COVID-19 and Nutrition Security

Discussion on the impact of the pandemic on nutrition security and food distribution.

Efforts in Baltimore, including the distribution of produce boxes.

5. Food as Medicine: Concept and Application

Holly elaborates on the concept of food as medicine.

Different types of food prescriptions and their significance in healthcare.

6. Scaling Challenges and Solutions

Challenges in nationwide implementation of food as medicine programs.

Issues around policy, technology, and funding.

7. Healthcare Provider Perspectives

Insights into how healthcare providers view food prescriptions.

The importance of patient-centric approaches in healthcare.

8. Nationwide Implementation: Current and Future State

Holly’s perspective on the present and future of food as medicine initiatives across the U.S.