GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Coverage for Obesity in Medicaid and Total GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Utilization
JAMA Health Forum 10.1001/jamahealthforum.2026.3353September 25, 2026 at 11:00 AM EDT
Results of this study suggest that substitution effects are possible between obesity-labeled and diabetes-labeled GLP-1 RAs, varying by state coverage policies, that could impact coverage decisions.
Among state Medicaid programs, coverage of obesity-labeled glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists was associated with higher use of obesity-labeled medications, while changes in total GLP-1 receptor agonist use were smaller and not statistically significant.
Reporting Resource: In 2026, the JAMA Summit on Obesity brought together an international group of cross-sector leaders to explore the issues, challenges, and opportunities to advance treatment for obesity and metabolic disorders, with a specific focus on the actionable steps that must be taken in the next 1-2 years. The invitation-only meeting included patients, clinicians, biomedical scientists, economists, policy experts, and representatives from government and the food, wellness, and pharmaceutical industries. Reporters may join the JAMA Summit mailing list for updates on the forthcoming JAMA Summit Report on Obesity.
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