A coalition of obesity-related patient advocacy groups is calling on the incoming Trump administration to finalize a proposal that would allow Medicare to cover obesity medications.
Led by the Obesity Care Advocacy Network (OCAN), more than 70 organizations said in a statement that addressing, treating and managing obesity is key to making America healthier.
The groups pointed to a study that found if nothing is done, 213 million Americans will be overweight or obese by 2050. That would mean hundreds of millions of people facing health complications like diabetes, cancer, heart problems, breathing issues and mental health challenges.
“The new administration must take action to address this crisis, by allowing Medicare and Medicaid to offer comprehensive obesity care for the millions of Americans who need these services and treatments,” the groups said.
The Biden administration in November proposed allowing Medicare and Medicaid to cover obesity medications such as Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Zepbound from Eli Lilly. The drugs have been shown to have numerous health benefits, but Medicare is prohibited from covering “weight loss” drugs.
To sidestep the restriction, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services said obesity would be considered a chronic disease.
But the rule can’t take effect unless the Trump administration wants to move forward with it. Two of President-elect Trump’s top health nominees have differing views on the benefits of the drugs.
The policy would likely be politically popular but could cost the programs tens of billions of dollars. There’s bipartisan interest in Congress in letting Medicare cover anti-obesity medications, but the price tag has been the biggest obstacle.
The price tag could also give pause to Trump officials who want to slash spending, though if the administration were to make the decision, it could take the pressure off lawmakers.
“Medicare’s current categorization and restriction is outdated. It does not align with current medical evidence, standards of care or the understanding of the disease,” the groups said. “The proposed CMS rule would address an urgent health crisis and leading contributor to the ‘Unhealth’ of Americans.”
