Ozempic has the potential to improve America’s healthcare system

One of the memorable lines from a “South Park” special in May was, “Rich people get Ozempic. Poor people get body positivity.” The show focused on semaglutide, a type-2 diabetes drug that is popular among wealthier Americans for weight loss.

America’s obesity problem is costly in ways we may not realize. It is time to reconsider the idea that drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) should only be available to those who can afford them. Making these drugs accessible to everyone could potentially save money in the long run.

America’s obesity epidemic leads to lost productivity, high medical bills, fertility struggles, and limits on military service eligibility. The economic toll of obesity-related medical costs is around $173 billion annually. This burden falls disproportionately on poorer Americans, as poverty and obesity are closely linked.

Mandating coverage of weight-loss medications, including GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide, particularly through state Medicaid plans, could lead to reduced long-term health costs, increased birth rates, and improved military readiness.

Medicaid recipients are typically young, representing the population that is needed for military service and future generations. The high prevalence of obesity among Medicaid recipients calls for a comprehensive strategy that includes GLP-1 medications to address the issue.

GLP-1 medications could also help address the declining birth rate in America. These drugs have shown promise in helping women conceive and improving fertility in both men and women. This could potentially lead to an increase in the birth rate in the country.

Access to weight loss drugs like GLP-1 medications could help Americans lead healthier, happier lives and improve military readiness, an essential aspect of national security.

Mandatory coverage of GLP-1 medications by insurance companies, both public and private, would ultimately reduce costs, improve health outcomes, and address the obesity crisis in the country.

Limiting access to GLP-1 medications due to cost implications is short-sighted. Broad access to these drugs could lead to healthier, happier futures for Americans.

Expanding access to GLP-1 medications is crucial for national health and well-being, despite the initial challenges it may pose.

Tim Rosenberger is a legal fellow at the Manhattan Institute.