The High Cost of Slimming Down: What's Happening with Weight-Loss Drugs?

You might know about Ozempic and Wegovy, two drugs that help people feel full and eat less. With obesity rates high, a lot of Americans want these treatments. But here’s the tricky part: even though many have employer-sponsored health insurance, getting coverage for these expensive medicines is tough.

One in three employees are looking for more support to fight obesity, according to a Gallagher report. The catch? These drugs cost almost $1,350 per month. Insurance companies are hesitant to cover this, making healthcare costlier for everyone. Last year, prescription drug costs rose by 8.6%, partly because more people are using these drugs. It's a tough situation: these drugs can help, but their price is burdening the healthcare system. "It's a long-term deal," said the head of a benefits design company, Gary Kushner. People using these drugs might need them for months or years. That’s a hefty financial commitment, making healthcare even more expensive.

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