Obesity medications made headlines in 2024, with a growing focus on insurance coverage and costs. The conversation around obesity intensified as it intersected with public health, policy, and insurance issues. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists saw exponential interest and demand outpaced supply.
Research revealed the GLP-1s had roles beyond weight loss, sparking new discussions. A review article published in The American Journal of Managed Care explored the obesity epidemic’s impact on US healthcare, highlighting racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities. The study found inadequate access to healthcare providers and services drives the obesity prevalence.
Weight loss medications are not a one-size-fits-all solution and require ongoing treatment for effective results. As prescription medication popularity grows, cost becomes an issue, with only small percentages of insurance companies covering treatments. Alternative payment models, like the Netflix model, could help alleviate costs.
New research showed semaglutide improved hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) flare-ups in patients with obesity and insulin resistance. However, insurers dropping coverage for GLP-1 weight loss drugs leaves patients with higher out-of-pocket expenses. Clinicians advise patients to seek alternative solutions if coverage is dropped, highlighting the need for comprehensive healthcare reform.
In a separate development, the Year-End Spending Bill includes reforms aimed at Pharmacy Benefit Managers and telehealth access. As obesity treatment continues to evolve, addressing coverage issues and costs remains crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Source: https://www.ajmc.com/view/top-5-most-read-obesity-articles-in-2024