Medi-Cal access to anti-obesity medications is essential to Californians’ health

OPINION – The obesity epidemic has had its toll on America. With half-a-million deaths annually, millions more impacted by related complications, and hundreds of billions spent on treatment, the numbers paint a grim picture.

But the numbers alone don’t tell the complete story of the impact of this chronic disease. Particularly among minority and lower-income populations here in California, where the rates of obesity are higher compared to the rest of the population.

As a licensed vocational nurse, I’ve routinely seen the effects of this disease up close. I’ve helped treat heart attacks and strokes, individuals in various stages of chronic kidney disease, and more.

Across race, gender, and income class, the one commonality that plays a key role in their condition – excess weight. And one thing is clear, reducing this weight could lower the risk factor for these conditions and more than 200 others.

The good news, however, is that for many Californians, including those that rely on Medi-Cal, treatment for obesity has become more possible. With the creation of Medi-Cal Rx by Governor Newsom and the program’s direct price negotiations with drug manufacturers, California has been able to cover anti-obesity medications (AOMs) for all Medi-Cal enrollees.

But the bad news is that this coverage appears at risk. With the state finalizing their budget in the coming weeks and looking to fill deficits, including within the Medi-Cal program, AOM coverage could be on the chopping block.

Having seen the importance of comprehensive obesity treatment with AOMs from a clinical standpoint, it’s imperative that this coverage isn’t cut.

Continued coverage is both a direct investment in millions of Californians’ health and will lead to billions in long-term savings from lower healthcare costs related to obesity and its comorbidities.

From a health perspective, the impact of AOMs cannot be overstated. They have been shown to reduce the risk of strokes and heart disease by 20 percent, and alongside significant weight loss, have been proven to have a myriad of other benefits. Things like blood pressure, sleep apnea, and glycemic health are all improved via the use of AOMs.

What this equates to is a much healthier person. Studies have shown that effective obesity treatment, including with AOMs, can provide 515 million additional years of life for those impacted by obesity.

Beyond that, alongside the physical benefits, there are substantial fiscal benefits that stem from the use of AOMs. In the next decade, healthcare expenses related to obesity are estimated to top $9 trillion owing largely to hospitalizations.

On the other hand, USC’s Schaeffer Center has estimated the potential healthcare savings from this effective form of obesity treatment to be more than $175 billion over 10 years.

California has already established themselves as a leader in obesity care. By providing AOMs for Medi-Cal patients, they’ve put the state on track for a healthier future. One with less disease, fewer hospitalizations, and meaningful savings on healthcare expenses.

But it’s important that the state doesn’t turn back on this commitment to public health.

In the face of budget difficulties, Medi-Cal Rx drug price negotiations have made it affordable and possible for the state to provide AOMs to Medi-Cal beneficiaries. Lawmakers must continue to support this funding – the alternative is far too costly.

Jackie Perez has been a licensed vocational nurse for over 34 years. Over the course of her career, she’s treated patients in clinics and hospitals in Framingham, Massachusetts as well as throughout San Bernardino and Los Angeles Counties in California.