Lifelong is thrilled to announce that we recently achieved Food is Medicine Coalition (FIMC) Accreditation. We are the first medically tailored meal provider in Washington State to receive FIMC Accreditation and one of just thirteen Accredited Agencies across the country.
The Food is Medicine Coalition (FIMC) is a national coalition of nonprofit organizations that provide medically tailored meals (MTMs) and groceries (MTGs), medical nutrition therapy and nutrition counseling, and education to people living with severe and chronic illnesses in communities across the country.
FIMC’s Accreditation Program audits organizations to ensure compliance and fidelity to the high-quality MTM intervention. Regardless of location, size, or number of clients and meal plans catered for, all FIMC-Accredited agencies prepare and provide a high-quality medically tailored meal intervention that meets the needs of clients living with severe, complex, or chronic health conditions.
This is a significant accomplishment for Lifelong and our clients, as it demonstrates what we’ve known for decades – our medically tailored meals are a treatment intervention that improves health outcomes and quality of life for our clients. We support our clients’ overall health by focusing on the importance of evidence-based nutrition as part of their care. Medically tailored meals can reduce the symptoms and daily impact of many illnesses, minimize medication side effects, and provide comfort when it is needed most. At the same time, MTMs have been proven to reduce health care costs.
Lifelong being a FIMC Accredited Agency is a testament to the rigorous standards we uphold and the care and expertise that drives everything we do. FIMC accreditation extends beyond meals. For example, it ensures that all clients receive client-centered care, have access to nutrition counseling and education from our RDN’s, and have their feedback regularly reviewed and integrated into services provided. Food is Medicine and Lifelong stands with fellow organizations that benefit neighbors in need with health and quality-forward standards.