Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Applauds Proposal of Expanded Medicare Coverage for Anti-Obesity Medications, Calls for Comprehensive Approach Including Nutrition Services

November 26, 2024

Chicago, IL – The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics welcomes today’s announcement from the Biden-Harris Administration proposing a rule to expand Medicare and Medicaid coverage for anti-obesity medications. This represents a significant step forward in addressing obesity as a chronic disease and improving access to critical treatments for millions of Americans.

Obesity affects over 42% of the U.S. population and is a leading driver of chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. The Academy commends the administration for recognizing the importance of innovative treatments in managing obesity and reducing healthcare costs.

However, while expanding coverage for anti-obesity medications is a positive development, the Academy emphasizes that these treatments alone are not sufficient to address the multifaceted nature of obesity. For these medications to achieve their full potential in improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs, they must be paired with comprehensive nutrition services, including medical nutrition therapy (MNT), intensive behavioral therapy (IBT) as well as broader efforts to improve the food system.

“Obesity is a complex disease that requires a multi-pronged approach to treatment,” said 2024-2025 Academy President Livleen Gill, MBA, RD, LDN, FAND. “In addition to access to anti-obesity medications, we urge Congress and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to broaden coverage for evidence-based nutrition services such as MNT and IBT under Medicare Part B. These services, provided by registered dietitian nutritionists, are proven to enhance the effectiveness of medication, mitigate side effects and improve long-term health outcomes.”

MNT and IBT empower individuals to make sustainable lifestyle changes, addressing the root causes of chronic diseases like obesity. These services not only complement pharmaceutical interventions but also contribute to reducing healthcare costs by preventing and managing chronic diseases effectively.

The Academy also emphasizes the critical need to tackle the root causes of obesity through systemic reforms in the nation’s food environment. While medications can play a role in treating obesity, improving the overall food system is essential to reduce reliance on medical interventions and prevent chronic diseases for future generations. This requires expanding access to both medication and nutrition services and fostering a healthier food system to effectively address this epidemic.

The Academy stands ready to work with the administration, Congress, and other stakeholders to advocate for a comprehensive approach to obesity treatment. Expanding access to both medication and nutrition services, alongside food system improvements, is essential to achieving better health for seniors and reducing the overall burden of chronic disease on the healthcare system.

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About the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals, representing more than 112,000 registered dietitian nutritionists, nutrition and dietetics technicians, registered, and other dietetics professionals. The Academy is committed to improving health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education, and advocacy.
For more information, visit www.eatright.org.