Biden proposes weight loss drug coverage for people on Medicare and Medicaid
Biden proposes weight loss drug coverage for people on Medicare and Medicaid
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Biden proposes weight loss drug coverage for people on Medicare and Medicaid
Summary
The Biden administration proposed requiring Medicare and Medicaid to cover weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, reclassifying obesity as a chronic disease to expand access for millions.
This would reduce out-of-pocket costs, but federal spending could rise by $36 billion over a decade.
Critics, like Sen. Bernie Sanders, warn high drug prices could strain the system, while experts argue reduced obesity-related complications may lower long-term healthcare costs.
The plan faces a 60-day comment period, leaving its implementation uncertain under the incoming Trump administration.