Dr. Laure DeMattia, a bariatric medicine specialist in Norman, Oklahoma, is all too familiar with the challenges faced by her patients when it comes to losing weight. At the weight-loss clinic in Oklahoma City where she practices, many patients could potentially benefit from new medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy. However, the high cost of these medications often poses a major hurdle for individuals seeking effective weight loss solutions.
Dr. DeMattia notes that her patients have typically tried various diets and exercise routines before turning to prescription injections like semaglutide or tirzepatide. An analysis of more than 4 million prescriptions nationwide reveals significant disparities in access to semaglutide, with a majority of prescriptions going to white individuals. Shockingly, only 1% of the U.S. population with government or private insurance had a prescription filled for semaglutide in 2023.
The affordability of weight loss medications is a pressing issue that is causing frustration among patients and healthcare providers alike. While states like West Virginia have instituted programs to cover the cost of medications for their employees, other states like Oklahoma are facing challenges in providing access to these potentially life-changing treatments.
Patients like Liz Shumate and Susan Beam have shared their struggles with obtaining weight loss medications due to limitations in insurance coverage. The fact that Medicare does not currently cover these medications serves as a significant barrier for many individuals, prompting calls for policy changes in order to make these treatments more accessible to those in need.
Healthcare professionals are also expressing concern over the possibility of losing patients due to the high cost of these medications and the lack of insurance coverage. The need for more accessible options for weight loss treatments is becoming increasingly urgent as individuals continue to grapple with obesity and related health issues.