Addressing Health Disparities: The Urgent Need for Medicare to Cover Obesity Treatments
Obesity isn’t just a lifestyle issue—it’s a chronic disease tied to serious health risks like diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. Black women, who face the highest obesity rates in the U.S., are disproportionately affected due to systemic inequities in healthcare and access to treatment.
Currently, Medicare Part D excludes coverage for weight management medications. This policy leaves many, especially Black women in underserved communities, without access to effective, FDA-approved treatments. The Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI) supports the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in reinterpreting this rule to address these inequities.
Studies show medications like semaglutide can lead to significant weight loss and improve overall health. By expanding coverage, CMS can help ensure equitable access to these treatments, empowering Black women to better manage obesity and related conditions. It’s time to treat obesity as a serious medical issue and provide the care needed to support healthier futures.
Voice your support for this change
Regulations.gov Comment Submission Form (comments can be submitted as an attachment or plain-text) Deadline for public comment is Jan 27, 5PM EST. Comments should refer to file code CMS-4208-P and Section 1.B.4. Part D Coverage of Anti-Obesity Medications (§ 423.100) and Application to the Medicaid Program.