Background: Under current law, Medicare’s prescription drug benefit (Part D) excludes “agents when used for anorexia, weight loss, or weight gain”. This exclusion has prevented Medicare from covering obesity medications and has allowed Medicaid plans to opt out of providing such coverage.

Take Action Now: Submit a Public Comment telling CMS you support the proposed rule to expand coverage of obesity medications for Americans with Medicare and Medicaid.

For more than a decade, the OAC has advocated for coverage of comprehensive obesity care, including FDA-approved medications. Late last year, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced a Proposed Rule that would expand coverage for obesity medications under Medicare and Medicaid by reinterpreting the exclusionary language so that medications used for weight loss or chronic weight management for treating obesity would be covered. As part of the regulatory process, there is a 60-day public comment period that allows individuals to submit feedback on the Proposed Rule.

• Public comments play a crucial role in shaping policy by making voices heard and contributing to meaningful change.
• We encourage individuals living with obesity, healthcare providers and organizations to submit comments on the Proposed Rule.
• Medicare and Medicaid coverage policy sets the standard for other insurers, both private and public.

It’s Easy to Submit Your Comment! Use our easy automated form and template to get started. It is important that you personalize the comment before sending by adding your story and stating how coverage would impact you.