California Stops Covering Weight Loss Drugs
From 1 January, California stopped paying for popular weight loss injections like Wegovy and Zepbound for adults on Medi-Cal, the state’s Medicaid programme.
Cost Is the Main Reason
The state says the drugs are simply too expensive. Officials estimated the yearly cost could rise to almost $800 million if coverage continued, even after promised price cuts from the TrumpRx plan.
Other States Are Doing the Same
California is not alone. States such as New Hampshire, Pennsylvania and South Carolina have also stopped covering these drugs for weight loss, though they still pay for them when used to treat diabetes or heart disease.
Doctors Say Diet and Exercise Aren’t Enough
Health officials suggest people try diet, exercise and counselling instead. Doctors say this advice is often unrealistic, as many patients have already tried these methods without success.
Patients May Gain Weight Again
Medical experts warn that most people put weight back on once they stop taking the drugs. They say this could undo years of progress and harm patients’ health.
Price Cuts Won’t Help Much
Although drug prices are expected to fall under TrumpRx, doctors say the medicines will still be too costly for most people on Medicaid.
What Options Are Left?
Children and young people under 21 are still covered
Adults may keep coverage if the drug is needed for another illness
Patients can appeal if they are refused
New weight-loss pills may be cheaper than injections
Obesity Needs Long-Term Treatment
Doctors say obesity is a long-term condition. For many people, stopping medication means the weight quickly comes back.
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