All schools in Upshur County will close at 1 p.m. today. All B-UHS sporting events today are canceled.

DMC Food Farmacy combats food insecurity

Elkins — Davis Medical Center’s population health program is preparing to launch its third Food Farmacy cohort, a program aimed at addressing food insecurity and improving health outcomes for patients with diabetes. It is designed to provide patients with access to nutritious food, and resources to better manage their condition and enhance overall well-being.

“Through our population health program data, we know that food insecurity negatively affects the health of residents in our service area, especially those with diabetes,” said Dr. Catherine “Mindy” Chua, DO, MS, FAAFP, FNMN, CPE, FAAPL. “The food farmacy bridges the gap between patients struggling to afford nutritious foods, and successfully controlling blood sugar levels and preventing complications.”

The 12-month program includes 6 months of interactive nutrition and health education, healthy meal planning and preparation, and monitoring of vital health statistics. During the second half of the program patients use new skills and education to build sustainable lifestyle changes.

“Patient outcomes were varied during our 2021 pilot program,” said Dr. Chua. “We tracked weight, blood pressure, hemoglobin AIC levels and quality of life metrics at specific intervals throughout the 12-month period and came away with learnings that have helped improve the program for the current cohort.”

“Transportation, illiteracy, and personal motivation were patient barriers,” said Chua. “We’re working to overcome these challenges through the development of video classes and picture recipe cards.”

The cost to operate the pilot program was roughly $7,500. With the program doubling in size, Dr. Chua said they are working to offset the cost through grants, volunteers, and community partners.

Community support and partnership for the Davis Medical Center Food Farmacy has been received from Citizens Bank of WV, Davis Health System Foundation, and Vandalia Health.

“As a community hospital, it’s our role to improve the health and well-being of our population,” Chua added. “The Food Farmacy is an innovative program supporting patients in achieving their best possible health outcomes. We look forward to watching it grow and change lives.”

Share this story:

Local Businesses

RECENT Stories

Buckhannon man charged with stealing package from ex-wife’s building, stalking

A Buckhannon man was arrested after allegedly stealing a package and contacting a woman against her will. Thomas Summers, 36, faces charges including entering without breaking, stalking, petit larceny and possession of a controlled substance.

Those pretty red leaves? They’re lying to you: The surprising truth about poinsettias

aoinsettias’ bright red “petals” aren’t flowers at all — they’re modified leaves called bracts, with the true flowers in the tiny yellow center. Learn about the plant’s Aztec roots, how it became a holiday staple, and simple tips to keep it thriving.

Buckhannon man charged with felony domestic battery after altercation over car keys

A Buckhannon man was arrested on a charge of domestic battery, third offense, after allegedly striking a woman when he was “extremely intoxicated” and they refused to give him his car keys.

West Virginia State Parks announces First Day Hikes for New Year’s Day

Twenty-one state parks and forests — including Audra and Canaan — will host free guided hikes on January 1 to help visitors kick off 2026 outdoors.

Mountain CAP to host free workshop for dads in January

Mountain CAP Family Support Center is hosting a free Key Behaviors Workshop for dads and male caregivers on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Buckhannon.

The Thread Lab opens Main Street storefront in Buckhannon for custom embroidery and apparel

The Thread Lab has opened a Main Street storefront in Buckhannon, giving customers an easier way to shop and order custom embroidered and personalized apparel. General manager Ashley Marple said a grand opening is planned after the holidays.

WVU doctors warn of whooping cough surge in West Virginia, highest in 15 years

West Virginia is experiencing its highest number of whooping cough cases since 2010, with WVU doctors warning about symptoms and risks. Untreated, the infection can linger for months.

Thomas “Tom” Jesse Riley

Thomas “Tom” Jesse Riley, 71, of Buckhannon, WV, a longtime trucker and owner of Riley Trucking and Repair, died December 19, 2025, and is survived by his wife Mary Ann, five children, grandchildren and siblings.

Michele Lynn Mellon

Michele Lynn Mellon, 78, of Buckhannon, West Virginia, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and Hallmark employee who loved faith, family and handwritten cards, died peacefully at home after an injury and subsequent stroke.