Washington, D.C. – President Biden is proposing a new initiative that could potentially help millions of obese Americans by expanding Medicare and Medicaid coverage to include costly weight-loss drugs. This move is part of a larger effort to address the rising rates of obesity in the country and improve public health.

If approved, the proposal could provide coverage for drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy to 7.4 million Americans who are either enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid. This expansion would give individuals access to more comprehensive treatments for obesity, which has been recognized as a significant health issue in the United States.

One of the main reasons for the proposal is the increasing demand for weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, which have been shown to be effective in helping individuals lose weight. However, the high costs of these drugs have been a barrier for many individuals seeking treatment. By including these drugs in Medicare and Medicaid coverage, more people could potentially benefit from their weight-loss effects.

The proposal has garnered support from public health experts and advocates who believe that increasing access to weight-loss drugs could help combat the obesity epidemic in the United States. Obesity has been linked to a range of health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer, making it a pressing public health concern.

While the proposal is still in its early stages, it represents a significant step towards addressing the obesity crisis in the country. By expanding coverage for weight-loss drugs, the initiative has the potential to improve the health and well-being of millions of Americans struggling with obesity. Ultimately, the success of this proposal could have far-reaching implications for public health and the healthcare system as a whole.