Obesity is a chronic disease that increases risk of other serious health conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and certain cancers. With 4 out of 10 American adults living with obesity, access to and insurance coverage for treatment options are essential.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating obesity, and luckily, there are several FDA-approved medication options available today that work alongside diet and exercise programs, surgery and psychotherapy.
Unfortunately, not everyone is able to get access to these medication options through their health insurance, which limits their ability to get the treatment they need to improve their health outcomes.
Watch: Congressional Briefing: Ensuring Patient Access to Effective Treatments for Obesity >>
Watch: Congressional Briefing – Obesity: The Cost of No Coverage >>
Act Now
Currently, a rule change has been proposed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) that would expand coverage for anti-obesity medications under Medicare and Medicaid. The rule was met with widespread support during a public comment period, and CMS is currently reviewing the comments. The finalized rule is expected in April.
HealthyWomen is working with advocacy groups to push for the rule change to expand coverage of and access to anti-obesity medications, and you can help.
Use the Obesity Action Coalition’s advocacy tool to send a letter to the Trump administration urging them to support the proposed rule change.
Resources
Alliance for Women’s Health and Prevention’s Advocacy Tool
HealthyWomen’s Obesity Education
Obesity Action Coalition’s Advocacy Tool
Reclaim Your Wellness CampaignThis educational resource was created with support from Eli Lilly and Company and Novo Nordisk.
