A proposal announced by President Joe Biden to expand Medicare and Medicaid coverage for expensive injectable weight loss drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, received tentative support from West Virginia’s incoming senators.
These drugs, commonly known as GLP-1 drugs, help manage obesity and related conditions by regulating blood sugar and controlling hunger. The new rule aims to make these medications more accessible, potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs for up to 3.4 million Americans with Medicare and 4 million Medicaid enrollees.
Senator Shelley Moore Capito R-W.Va. expressed support for expanding coverage, emphasizing her long-standing advocacy for anti-obesity medication access.
Governor Jim Justice, who personally uses Ozempic to aid his weight loss efforts, also supported the idea, suggesting that broader availability could lead to long-term healthcare savings by promoting healthier lifestyles.
However, Justice cautioned that the cost of implementing this coverage should be carefully considered, and he proposed waiting for the incoming administration to review the proposal.
The cost of GLP-1 drugs, which can reach up to $1,000 monthly, has already been straining private health insurance plans. Some insurance providers have responded by requiring prior authorizations, and the Public Employees Insurance Agency has seen proposed premium increases due to the drugs’ cost.
Despite these financial challenges, proponents believe expanding access through Medicare and Medicaid could ultimately save money by improving public health outcomes.