Biden Administration Proposes Medicare Coverage for Weight-Loss Drugs

President Biden's administration has proposed extending Medicare and Medicaid coverage to include weight-loss medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy, aiming to tackle the obesity epidemic affecting over 40% of U.S. adults. Supporters view this initiative as a historic step in addressing obesity as a chronic disease, potentially benefiting millions by reducing out-of-pocket costs significantly. However, critics raise concerns about the estimated $25 billion cost for Medicare and $11 billion for Medicaid over a decade, questioning the sustainability of such expenses. The proposal, which requires federal approval, has sparked debate among stakeholders, including healthcare advocates, economists, and government officials. Some argue that while medications can aid weight loss, lifestyle changes remain crucial in combating obesity. The discussions around this policy reflect a growing recognition of obesity's impact on public health and healthcare costs.