Instacart, a leading grocery technology company, and Mount Sinai Solutions, a division of the Mount Sinai Health System, have joined forces to launch a new initiative. This partnership will provide Instacart Health Fresh Funds grocery stipends as a benefit for patients who have undergone significant medical events like joint replacements, childbirth, or bariatric surgery and are insured by a health plan sponsored by a Mount Sinai Solutions employer or union customer.
The program aims to address the challenges that patients face in accessing fresh groceries and essential household items following major medical procedures. By collaborating directly with employers and unions, Mount Sinai Solutions is streamlining the health benefits ecosystem, enhancing the patient experience, and ensuring access to care and services.
Sarah Mastrorocco, Vice President and General Manager of Instacart Health, stated, “We’re using our reach and technology to create impactful access programs with leading providers and health plans that help solve real patient challenges.” She emphasized Instacart’s commitment to providing patients with choices to purchase groceries that align with their unique tastes, needs, and budgets.
Through this partnership, patients within the Mount Sinai Solutions network will receive $110 in Fresh Funds for the episode of care. These funds can be used to cover the delivery costs of fresh groceries, pantry staples, and household essentials. The service will be available following specialized care and surgery at Mount Sinai facilities in New York City and through extended partners in Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Additionally, patients will have access to a customized Mount Sinai Virtual Storefront, simplifying shopping and delivery from local, regional, and national retailers via Instacart. The program will also provide actionable recommendations from Mount Sinai experts using Instacart Health tools, supporting each patient’s recovery journey.
Lauren Lisher, Senior Vice President of Specialty Care and Partnerships at Mount Sinai Solutions, explained that the partnership with Instacart aims to offer a robust grocery delivery solution that provides nourishing foods and essentials needed for a smooth recovery after hospital discharge.
Instacart Health leverages the company’s platform and partnerships to expand access to nutritious food and promote healthy choices. This initiative aligns with Instacart’s dedication to ensuring that every family has access to essential groceries.
Instacart currently partners with over 1,400 retail banners and more than 80,000 stores across North America, providing access to a wide range of nutritious foods. Additionally, the company offers online SNAP acceptance in all 50 states and plans to introduce grocery benefits for chronically ill Medicare Advantage members in California and Nevada in 2024.
This partnership highlights the role of technology in enhancing patient experiences and making essential services more accessible during crucial recovery periods.
