Weight-loss drug restrictions shine spotlight on imbalance in obesity care – By Tina Reed (Axios) / March 4, 2024
Tightening restrictions on who can receive the remarkably effective class of new weight-loss drugs is putting a spotlight on an imbalance in how health plans cover obesity care.
Why it matters: The explosive growth of Ozempic and other drugs known as GLP-1 agonists has led to greater recognition of obesity as a chronic condition rather than a lifestyle disease. But it’s also sparked major concerns about the potential budget-busting costs of treating the more than 40% of Americans who are obese.
The big picture: While many employers offer some coverage for obesity care, it’s typically far more limited and comes with more restrictions around what they will pay for compared with other conditions.
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