Unsurprisingly, GLP-1 medications were a hot topic during HLTH USA. Discussions focused on the increasing popularity and effectiveness of these drugs, and highlighted the therapeutic promise, as well as challenges around access and affordability, and how the industry is reacting to barriers experienced by providers and patients.

Key topics that caught our attention included employer coverage of GLP-1s, the role of co-pilots in enhancing long-term support, and the varying opinions in the industry regarding compounded GLP-1s.

• Employer Coverage: The rising popularity and effectiveness of GLP-1 medications in treating obesity and type 2 diabetes have made them an attractive option for employers considering coverage. However, they also face significant financial challenges associated with these high-cost drugs, which can range from $1,000 to $1,500 per month. Currently, approximately 35-40% of employers offer reimbursement for GLP-1s, but their strategies for doing so vary widely.

As employers grapple with these escalating costs, many are feeling the pressure. Some companies have temporarily reduced their coverage of GLP-1 medications as a stopgap measure, indicating a broader struggle to find a sustainable approach to managing these expenses. As one panelist described, it’s almost as if employers are regrouping and trying to figure out the best solution to move forward but coverage will likely go back upwards again.

• Co-Pilots: Weight loss programs can be highly effective, but they must be designed with equity and accessibility in mind to avoid creating additional barriers for those seeking GLP-1 medications. Co-pilots are increasingly recognized as essential, offering support in areas that GLP-1s alone do not address, such as exercise, nutrition, and mental health.

Weight loss journeys are rarely linear, so co-pilots need to adapt to individual experiences, providing continuous support to prevent weight regain. While data on co-pilots during initial weight loss is still emerging, evidence suggests they can enhance long-term outcomes. Traditional weight loss programs often yield low success rates on their own, indicating the need for integrated approaches. With about 30% of GLP-1 users discontinuing treatment early, effective co-pilot programs could improve adherence by offering social and nutritional support.

• Compounded GLP–1: The shortage of GLP-1 medications has opened the path for compounded GLP-1 alternatives. While these compounded medications can lower costs and enhance accessibility, they raise important questions about safety and efficacy, as they do not require clinical trial evidence and are not overseen by the FDA. Critics argue that the risks associated with compounded versions are not worth it, placing patients in unsafe positions when they cannot access regulated drugs. Meanwhile, digital health companies facilitating access to compounds claim they are providing access to medications that patients cannot otherwise obtain. Additionally, they offer personalized weight management plans, which may include support for tapering off the medications. One clear takeaway from HLTH 2024 is that the industry holds differing opinions on these drugs.

So what’s the future of GLP-1s?

Ongoing advancements in science and innovation will help lower costs and enhance patient accessibility, making reimbursement for GLP-1s a standard practice. While the drugs may evolve, personalized treatment options will remain essential for effective weight loss and improved health. 

Instead of focusing on transitioning patients off GLP-1 medications, the priority should be on increasing access to these important treatments and providing comprehensive support for sustainable weight management and overall health.

Want to know more? Watch the GLP-1 discussions and all other sessions from HLTH USA now on the HLTH Community platform.