Access to science-based obesity care should not depend on where someone lives or what type of health coverage they have.

That is why the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) is recognizing Indiana for taking an important step toward expanding access to obesity treatment for eligible Medicaid beneficiaries.

Indiana announced that its Medicaid program will participate in the federal BALANCE Model, expanding access to select GLP-1 medications for eligible residents living with obesity. The model also includes access to a lifestyle support program at no additional cost to the state.

Thank you, Indiana, for recognizing that people living with obesity deserve access to evidence-based treatment.

Obesity is a chronic disease that can affect a person’s health, quality of life and well-being. Yet many people continue to face barriers to receiving appropriate care, including limited insurance coverage for FDA-approved obesity treatments.

Expanding access to treatment is an important part of changing that.

The BALANCE Model provides an opportunity to explore new approaches to improving access to obesity care for people enrolled in Medicaid. For eligible beneficiaries, coverage of select GLP-1 medications will be paired with lifestyle support, reflecting the importance of comprehensive care.

Indiana’s decision is an important reminder of what can happen when policymakers recognize obesity as a chronic disease and work to remove barriers to care.

OAC applauds Indiana’s participation in BALANCE and its commitment to helping more Hoosiers access the care they need.

Medicaid coverage and access to obesity care can vary by state. Check the OAC Action Center to see if there’s an opportunity to take action in your state and help expand access to appropriate, science-based care.

Everyone deserves access to the treatment, support and care they need, regardless of their ZIP code or insurance coverage.