Why GLP-1 Medications Are Hard to Get for Many Patients

Topic: Research News

Researchers at the University of Mississippi are studying why many insurance plans restrict access to GLP-1 medications. They found that these medicines, which help with weight loss and improve health, are cost-effective but may not be affordable for insurers due to a large patient population.

GLP-1 medications have been shown to improve health and offer strong value for their price. However, many insurance plans continue to restrict access to these medicines. Researchers at the University of Mississippi are investigating the financial and practical reasons behind those limits, along with the consequences for patients.

A recent analysis from the Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER) concluded that GLP-1 drugs including Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound are cost-effective. This means that the health improvements they provide are considered substantial enough to justify their price. However, being cost-effective does not mean being affordable.

Sujith Ramachandran, an associate professor of pharmacy administration at the University of Mississippi, explained that a treatment can be cost-effective without being cost-saving for insurers. He said,

Implications

Researchers at the University of Mississippi are studying why many insurance plans restrict access to GLP-1 medications. They found that these medicines, which help with weight loss and improve health, are cost-effective but may not be affordable for insurers due to a large patient population.