Residents in Michigan taking weight loss drugs may soon face a setback as Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan plans to halt coverage for GLP-1 weight loss medications starting January 1, 2019.
About 10,000 patients could be impacted by this decision, as reported by Bloomberg.
The insurer’s move comes after a study revealed that most individuals did not experience long-term benefits from weight loss medication.
A study by Blue Health Intelligence found that 58% of patients ceased the medication’s use before experiencing significant health improvements.
As of August 1, requirements for covering Saxenda Wegovy Zepbound changed, necessitating in-person visits for prescription and a minimum body mass index of 35 kg/m2.
The updated policy also restricts access to these drugs to adults only, excluding children.
When searching for a health insurance plan, keep in mind that coverage for weight loss medication is often dependent on individual policies and circumstances.
Medicare, a government-sponsored plan, generally does not cover most weight loss medications except for certain cases involving severe health conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular risks.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s goal is to provide high-quality healthcare while considering cost-effectiveness for its members.
The company’s decision to alter coverage for GLP-1 drugs reflects a comprehensive evaluation of these medications’ efficacy, safety, cost, and accessibility.