Sparkling white and blue whites with "Year in Review" written in textAs we close out the final days of 2024, we at the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) are taking a moment to reflect on a year filled with milestones and progress in advancing education, advocacy and support for individuals affected by obesity. This year’s work has not only built on past successes but also positioned us to make an even greater impact as we head into 2025, our 20th Anniversary year!

Empowering Education

In 2024, we focused on delivering resources, increasing awareness of obesity as a chronic disease and empowering individuals on their weight and health journeys.

  • Your Weight Matters Regional Events: This new series of free, half-day programs brought science-based education on weight management, nutrition and mental health to six communities across the country: San Diego, Indianapolis, Tampa, Greenville, Austin and Boston. The events received overwhelmingly positive feedback, and we’re already planning for the cities we will visit in 2025!
    • “I feel empowered after this event with tools for myself and to share with others.”
    • “This was very informative and I learned a lot of valuable information.”
    • “Not a current OAC member but will become one!”
  • Resource Library Expansion: We added more than 50 new pieces of educational content that address key topics in weight management and health for individuals and families.
  • Your Weight Matters Campaign: A new public service announcement (PSA) and toolkits in English and Spanish were launched this year, reaching individuals through local T.V. stations and platforms like Hulu.

Advocacy Milestones

We saw significant progress this year in the fight for improved access to obesity care. Key legislative and policy wins paved the way for new treatment options and coverage for individuals affected by obesity:

  • Biden Administration Proposed Rule: In November, the administration proposed a rule to expand access to obesity medications under Medicare Part D and Medicaid, which is a crucial step toward more comprehensive coverage for obesity treatments.
  • Treat and Reduce Obesity Act: This legislation made landmark strides this year, advancing further than in previous Congresses. It passed out of the Ways & Means Committee and was included on the short list of bills to be considered for end-of-year legislation.
  • Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) increased reimbursement rates for Intensive Behavioral Therapy (IBT) for obesity. OAC submitted comments advocating for a higher payment rate to ensure broader access to this essential service.
  • Final Rule on Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act: For the first time, obesity was officially recognized as a potential disability under the Rehabilitation Act, which provides greater access to accommodations for individuals with obesity in healthcare settings.
  • State Advocacy: OAC made strides in 32 states, advocating for access to obesity care policies across Medicaid, state employee plans, ACA Exchange Plans and other state-regulated plans.

March Advocacy Day: OAC returned to Capitol Hill in person for the first time since the pandemic, during Obesity Care Week. We brought together patients and advocates to speak directly with lawmakers, share their personal stories and push for the policies that will improve access to care and reduce the stigma surrounding obesity.

New Image Gallery Launch: As part of our Stop Weight Bias Campaign, we launched a new Image Gallery that offers respectful and inclusive imagery of individuals living with obesity. Debuted at HLTH 2024, the gallery aims to combat harmful stereotypes and provide media outlets with dignified images to represent the obesity community.

Support and Community

In 2024, we expanded our efforts to foster community and providing meaningful connections to support individuals affected by obesity and their families.

  • Virtual Support Chats: These discussions following our Health Talks brought participants together to share experiences and find encouragement in a supportive environment.
  • Champion Program and Partnerships: We strengthened patient engagement through focus groups, patient panels and advisory boards, ensuring patient voices are guiding the future of obesity care.
  • Youth & Families Programs: OAC made strides in developing new resources for youth and families. Research and focus groups guided the creation of these initiatives, which will launch in 2025! We are excited to expand our support offerings to meet the needs of younger generations affected by obesity.

Looking Ahead

As we look ahead to 2025, OAC’s 20th Anniversary year, we’re excited about the work we’ve done in 2024 and the momentum it has created for the year ahead. You can expect to see us continue to advocate for policies that expand access to obesity care, ensure patient safety and representation, and reduce weight bias in every corner of society. We’re also eager to launch new initiatives, programs, and host our next Your Weight Matters National Convention and anniversary celebration in Washington, DC from July 24-26!

None of this would be possible without the support of our community. Whether you’re an advocate, a member, a partner or someone who simply believes in the work we do, we want to thank you for being a part of our journey.

As we move forward, we invite you to consider supporting our efforts with a year-end donation, which helps ensure that we can continue making a difference and advancing the work that is vital to those affected by obesity.