A recent survey has shown that a significant majority of older Americans believe that health insurers and Medicare should cover the expenses associated with weight-loss medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Zepbound.

The poll, conducted with over 2,600 participants aged 50 to 80, discovered that more than 80% of older adults think insurance companies should be responsible for covering medications designed to help individuals manage their weight. Moreover, about 76% of respondents think that Medicare should encompass coverage for weight-loss drugs, as indicated by researchers from the University of Michigan National Poll and Healthy Aging.

Dr. Lauren Oshman, an obesity medicine specialist and associate professor in the University of Michigan Department of Family Medicine, emphasized the evident awareness and interest in these medications and the importance of access to them through insurance. This includes coverage for various weight-focused care aspects, such as nutrition counseling, exercise programs, and bariatric surgery.

The spotlight on weight-loss drugs intensified with the approval of Wegovy, an injectable drug initially sanctioned for treating type 2 diabetes under the name Ozempic. Zepbound, previously known as Mounjaro, also obtained approval from the FDA for weight management.

Despite their efficacy, these medications come with a hefty price tag, exceeding $12,000 annually for those paying out of pocket. Nevertheless, data from clinical trials has shown their efficacy, closely rivaling that of bariatric surgery in assisting individuals with obesity in losing 10% or more of their body weight.

An existing law from 2003 currently prevents Medicare from covering medications specifically for weight loss. However, the federal insurance program is eligible to provide coverage for medications that aid individuals with type 2 diabetes in controlling their weight.

The survey unveiled a considerable interest among older adults in utilizing weight-loss drugs to address weight-related concerns. Roughly 25% of participants identified themselves as overweight, and 63% expressed a keen interest in weight-loss medications. This interest extended to 45% of respondents with diabetes, irrespective of their weight.

Despite the cost, these medications left a positive impression, with 83% of those who had previously taken a weight-loss medication expressing a willingness to do so again.

The survey, conducted in July and August among 2,657 adults aged 50 to 80, hopes to inform policymakers and benefit plan designers grappling with the cost and long-term benefits associated with these medications. The data further revealed that Ozempic/Wegovy has notably sparked interest in weight-loss medications, with 61% of survey participants recognizing the diabetes drug Ozempic, and 18% being informed about the version expressly approved for weight loss, Wegovy. Other weight-loss drugs, including phentermine, Saxenda, Contrave, and Qsymia, were less known among respondents.

As awareness and usage of these medications grow, and insurers make decisions about coverage, the researchers stress the importance of patients with obesity or diabetes discussing their options with healthcare providers. The results emphasize the ongoing discourse on obesity as a chronic condition and highlight the necessity for a comprehensive approach that includes lifestyle modifications as well as medical or surgical interventions.