How are companies affording GLP-1 coverage?

As consumers are clamoring for access to pricey GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, employers are feeling  the need to modify or update their plans to accommodate new demands and costs.

KFF's 2024 Employer Health Benefits Survey analyzed responses from 2,142 interviews with non-federal public and private firms to determine if employers are covering GLP-1s. 

Based on the findings, a majority of these employers are not covering these drugs, with only 18% confirming coverage. Larger firms are more likely to cover GLP-1 drugs, with 28% confirming coverage. Of the firms not covering these drugs, a majority (62%) are not likely to add this coverage this year. 

Read more: GLP-1s are evolving — how benefit managers can prepare 

Of the businesses covering GLP-1s for obesity, a majority (53%) require prerequisites to the coverage or additional steps such as case management or a lifestyle or weight loss program before or during coverage.

"There's no debating GLP-1 medications have a ton of great proven outcomes for people with diabetes and people with obesity," Kristin Hall, vice president of clinical programs and patient experience at Apree Health, told EBN. "But the unit price of these drugs is substantially high in the United States. It's essential for employers to focus on behavior change alongside medication so employees can reach their goals."

Read more about employers and GLP-1 coverage.