In a groundbreaking move towards advancing health and nutrition security, Kroger Health has launched the Smart Benefits Program in collaboration with Soda Health. This unique initiative combines the healthcare services of Kroger Health with Soda Health’s &more platform, offering personalized health recommendations and resources. The program is funded by insurance plans and includes a Soda Health debit card for purchasing nutritious foods and quality healthcare services. With this initiative, Kroger demonstrates its commitment to changing the way America eats, focusing on improving access to healthy, affordable food, and promoting the concept of food-as-medicine.
Understanding The Smart Benefits Program
The Kroger Health Smart Benefits program is designed to cater to the recipients of Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, and employer benefits programs. It offers a range of services, including pharmacy, nutrition services, and other eligible benefits at The Kroger Co.’s Family of Pharmacies. The program also includes the purchase of eligible food and over-the-counter health items. The operation and power of the program lie with Soda Health, which provides personalized health recommendations and caters to personalized benefits for food, health products, pharmacy, and nutrition services, among other social care needs. The &more debit card simplifies the process of purchasing nutritious food and quality healthcare services at participating retailers. The card can also be used to pay for transportation for medical appointments or personal utility bills.
Unveiling of Smart Benefits Program and Its Impact
Kroger and Soda Health unveiled the Smart Benefits Program on December 7, 2023. The program aims to enhance overall well-being and nutritional security by offering personalized benefits. The initiative empowers individuals to take charge of their well-being and make informed decisions about their health. The launch of the program witnessed a steady rise in Kroger’s stock performance, driven by robust financial results. The company reported a 7.52% increase in total revenue, a 35.69% surge in net income, and a 40.73% growth in earnings per share, making it an enticing investment option for stable growth in the retail industry.
Partnerships and Collaborations
As part of the Smart Benefits program, Kroger has also partnered with Performance Kitchen to expand access to medically tailored meals (MTMs) for people with chronic diseases. Research indicates that MTM programs could prevent 1.6 million hospitalizations and save health insurers $13.6 billion annually. Over a decade, the health cost savings from MTM program participants are estimated to reach $185.1 billion. In addition to this, Kroger offers virtual appointments with dietitians and is actively involved in nutrition counseling. Soda Health has further partnered with Albertsons, enabling consumers to use their health benefits funds on eligible purchases.
Advancing the Food-as-Medicine Movement
The Smart Benefits program underscores Kroger’s commitment to advancing the food-as-medicine movement. The company is steadfast in its efforts to address nutrition security concerns and is making strides to empower individuals to make healthier choices. By offering personalized health recommendations and savings on medications through the membership program, Kroger Health is equipping customers with the necessary tools and information to make better, healthier choices.