Becker's Healthcare February 11, 2025
The skyrocketing demand for GLP-1 drugs, initially developed for diabetes but now widely used for weight loss, is putting increasing financial strain on health plans and providers.
GLP-1s cost about $1,000 for a four-week supply, forcing some insurers and employers to scale back or end coverage due to soaring demand and costs.
The impact is evident in financial reports from major health systems, with insurers and self-funded employers scrambling to control costs while balancing patient access.
Rising costs drive health plan losses
Health plans have reported mounting losses tied to rising pharmacy costs, particularly from GLP-1 drugs.
Pittsburgh-based UPMC posted a $371 million operating loss for the nine months ending Sept. 30, 2024, largely attributed to increased medical...
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