Weight loss drugs just keep becoming more and more popular but not everyone can afford them, and they’re not always covered by insurance — especially for those insured by their employers. However, a new survey shows that could soon change.
Open enrollment begins this month for many companies across the nation, and that is when workers will find out if they can get some corporate help to shed pounds. GLP-1 drugs are used to treat diabetes, obesity, and some other conditions.
Employers typically cover the medications for diabetes, but not many cover them for weight loss because they are fairly expensive. A new KFF study shows more than 40 million people on their employers’ insurance are considered eligible to use the drugs for weight loss, based on their body mass index.
While the high prices of these medications could drive up insurance premiums, more than a quarter of employers who answered a national survey from human resources consulting firm Mecrer said they are considering adding coverage of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss in 2025 or 2026.
KFF found about the same number of employers say they’re planning to add that coverage within the next 12 months. It’s also likely that because of the cost, employers will put certain requirements in place before they pick up the tab, like requiring employees to try other weight loss methods first or get prior authorization.
