Trump administration should expand obesity medication access, says statement from over 70 patient advocacy groups

The Obesity Care Advocacy Network (OCAN), along with more than 70 other patient advocacy organizations across the spectrum of related obesity co-morbidities, have issued a statement urging the Trump administration to finalize the proposed CMS rulemaking to align coverage policy for Medicare and Medicaid to reflect that obesity is a chronic disease.

The statement urges that if action is not taken, the total number of adults with overweight or obesity could reach 213 million. To achieve making America healthier, obesity must be addressed, treated and managed effectively.

Excerpts from the statement are below:

"Obesity is a treatable chronic disease that plays a major factor in many other conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, fatty liver disease, kidney disease, lipid disorders, certain cancers, sleep apnea, arthritis, and mental illness. The treatment of obesity requires a comprehensive approach, including administering intensive behavioral therapy (IBT) and bariatric surgery under Medicare Part B and providing Medicare Part D coverage for Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved obesity medications…"

"…Without treatment, Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries with obesity risk further health deterioration and an increased likelihood of the onset of complications including obesity-related cancers, type 2 diabetes, and end stage renal disease. Additionally, people with severe obesity have a 48% higher risk of physical injury including falls, which lead to higher costs and mortality rates."

"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. This action would improve the health of individuals before they enter the Medicare program, thereby supporting better health and reducing long-term costs."

Provided by The Obesity Society