Healthcare Leaders Show Support for Expanded Coverage of GLP-1s for Obesity Treatment

Recently, several healthcare leaders have expressed their support for the Biden-Harris Administration’s new proposed rule that would expand coverage of GLP-1s for those with Medicare and Medicaid. This proposal would allow these programs to cover medications like Ozempic and Wegovy for obesity treatment, in addition to their current coverage for diabetes.

FAQs

What are GLP-1s?

GLP-1s are a class of medications commonly used to treat diabetes by helping to regulate blood sugar levels. They have also shown effectiveness in supporting weight loss and are being considered for coverage in Medicare and Medicaid for obesity treatment.

How will the proposed rule impact patients?

The proposal could support 3.4 million Medicare enrollees and reduce out-of-pocket costs for these medications by 95% for some beneficiaries. Additionally, 4 million adult Medicaid enrollees would gain access to these medications, potentially improving health outcomes for those struggling with obesity.

Conclusion

It is clear that there is strong support among healthcare leaders for the expansion of coverage for GLP-1s to include obesity treatment in Medicare and Medicaid. This proposed rule could have a significant impact on millions of Americans, particularly those from communities of color who are disproportionately affected by obesity. With proper coverage, more individuals will have access to the medications they need to manage their weight and improve their overall health.