GLP-1 medications are gaining attention for their potential to help with weight loss.
As obesity rates and healthcare costs rise, employers are considering whether offering these drugs could be a smart move.
The high annual cost, coupled with the fact that only 40% of employees may qualify for treatment, make it a challenging choice. And a $100 billion question.
That’s why deciding to cover GLP-1s shouldn’t be made without thorough research and careful consideration. Balancing cost and equitable access require careful consideration, especially when the long-term sustainability is unclear.
As the Chief Medical Officer of Personify Health, I’ve had to evaluate this decision for our 3,000+ global population.
Over the past year, I’ve spoken with over 60 healthcare experts and have spent 100s of hours researching the pros and cons of GLP-1s to help organizations make better-informed decisions.
In this article, I’ll share key findings, and you can download our guide for a deeper dive into the topic and what I would recommend for incorporating GLP-1s into your organization’s weight management strategy.
Short on time? Here’s a quick overview of what’s inside:
Obesity and rising healthcare costs
Obesity is driving up healthcare expenses by contributing to conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Experts predict that U.S. obesity rates could exceed 50% by 2030, meaning the need for effective weight management solutions will only grow.
Identifying risks early is essential, but the bigger challenge is finding strategies that address the root causes of obesity, not just its symptoms.
That’s where GLP-1s aim to help.
What are GLP-1s?
Originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications have shown potential for weight loss. These drugs mimic a hormone that regulates insulin, slows digestion, and reduces appetite.
Clinical studies show that GLP-1s, such as liraglutide, can lead to weight loss between 10.5 and 15.8 pounds. Their growing popularity is partly due to media attention and endorsements.
The challenges with GLP-1s for weight loss
While GLP-1s offer some promise, they come with many challenges that should be taken into account.
One of the biggest challenges is the hefty price tag. For example, treatments like Wegovy can cost around $16,000 per person per year, making this drug very expensive.
Aside from their high cost, many insurance plans, including Medicare, don’t cover GLP-1s for weight management, making them inaccessible for many.
In addition, GLP-1s can cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some users may experience more serious issues like pancreatitis or gallbladder problems.
Moreover, these medications don’t address the behavioral and mental health factors that are often the root causes of obesity.
So, what now?
Before deciding to add GLP-1s to your benefits package, it’s important to weigh these factors carefully. As leaders, it’s essential that employers, health plans, and providers offer solutions that not only address weight loss but promote overall health and wellbeing.
While GLP-1s offer a potential solution for weight management, they aren’t a cure-all. There’s no such thing as a magic pill.
At Personify Health, we believe that their high cost, side effects, and limited coverage mean employers should consider a more comprehensive approach, like a Digital Therapeutics program that includes mental health and behavioral support, for long-term success.
Curious to learn more about the role GLP-1s could play in your organization’s healthcare strategy? Download our comprehensive guide for deeper insights into the benefits, risks, and strategic considerations around these medications.
For additional information on weight management solutions for employers or continuing the conversation on GLP-1s, check out these resources: