(AURN News) — The Biden administration on Tuesday proposed a rule to expand Medicare and Medicaid coverage to include anti-obesity medications, aiming to make these treatments more accessible to millions of Americans.
The medications, which can cost up to $1,000 per month without insurance coverage, have shown promise in preventing Type 2 diabetes and treating obesity, according to the White House.
“Over the past few years, there have been major scientific advancements in the treatment of obesity, with the introduction of new life-saving drugs,” the White House said in a statement. “These anti-obesity medications can help prevent the development of Type 2 diabetes.”
Currently, Medicare and Medicaid only cover these medications for individuals with specific conditions, such as diabetes. Under the proposed rule, coverage would expand to include obesity treatment, potentially benefiting nearly 4 million adults on Medicaid.
“But for too many Americans, these critical treatments are too expensive and therefore out of reach,” the White House added.
The White House says the proposal is part of the Biden administration’s broader efforts to reduce overall prescription drug costs for Americans.
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