Food As Medicine
The Rhode Island Food As Medicine Task Force initially convened on August 26, 2026. This group—made up of leaders in healthcare, government, academia, insurance, and community organizations—is coming together to shape a Food As Medicine pilot for our state. Support for this Task Force is being provided by the Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS), Rhode Island Medicaid, and the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH). They’ll dig into evidence-based nutrition supports, new partnership opportunities, sustainable funding models, and ways to improve health for Rhode Islanders managing diet‑related chronic conditions.
Meeting Materials
October 20, 2026
August 26, 2026
Membership
Ana Novais, Assistant Secretary, Executive Office of Health and Human Services
Dr. Olutosin Ojugbele, Rhode Island Department of Health designee
Maria Cimini, Director, Office of Healthy Aging
Kimberly Merolla-Brito, Director, Department of Human Services
Charles Estabrook, Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner
Elena Nicolella, Representative from a community health center
Elizabeth McClaine, Representative from a managed Medicaid insurer providing medically tailored meals
Nick Lefeber, Representative from a commercial healthcare insurer providing medically tailored meals
Sherri Sprague, Representative from a hospital system engaged in value-based care initiatives
Dr. Sarah Amin, Master of Public Health (MPH), Representative from an academic institution with research or evaluation expertise
Jocelyn Antonio, MPH, Representative from an academic institution with research or evaluation expertise
Meghan Grady, Master of Public Administration (MPA), Representative from a not-for-profit medically tailored meal provider
Dr. Bryce Perler, General physician or advanced practice nurse with experience serving individuals with chronic illness
Casey Sardo, Registered Dietician (RD), Licensed registered dietitian nutritionist
Danette Brigg, Public member representing individuals managing chronic illness
Representative Justine Caldwell, One member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives (majority party), appointed by the Speaker
Representative Marie Hopkins, One member of the Rhode Island House of Representatives (minority party), appointed by the Minority Leader
Senator Victoria Gu, One member of the Rhode Island Senate (majority party), appointed by the Senate President
Senator Thomas J. Paolino, One member of the Rhode Island Senate (minority party), appointed by the Senate Minority Leader