Managed care considerations of weight management interventions for obesity

Am J Manag Care. 2022 Dec;28(15 Suppl):S307-S318. doi: 10.37765/ajmc.2022.89294.

Abstract

The growing prevalence of obesity in the United States has presented an opportunity to increase knowledge about optimal treatment approaches based on a better understanding of patient and provider biases, health care coverage and practices, and social determinants of health. Guideline-recommended obesity treatment begins with lifestyle intervention, and weight management may be enhanced by metabolic and bariatric surgery or anti-obesity medication (AOM) use. However, patient and provider perceptions surrounding obesity and different treatment modalities may present barriers to discussion and uptake of these interventions. Furthermore, it is uncommon for all effective obesity treatments (particularly AOMs) to be covered by insurance. Limited patient access to these treatments carries the potential for negative health consequences and higher health care costs. For these reasons, managed care decision makers are encouraged to improve access to effective obesity treatments, including coverage of AOMs such as semaglutide 2.4 mg.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Obesity Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Bariatric Surgery*
  • Humans
  • Life Style
  • Managed Care Programs
  • Obesity / therapy
  • United States

Substances

  • Anti-Obesity Agents