#United States #Washington #Women's Health #Obesity Care #EveryBODY Covered

A Collective Call for Obesity Care Coverage

In a significant move, the Alliance for Women's Health and Prevention (AWHP), leading the EveryBODY Covered campaign, has circulated an open letter urging top employers to integrate comprehensive obesity care into their health plans. This initiative, supported by over 65 organizations, aims to equate the treatment of obesity with other chronic conditions, thus ensuring that it receives the attention and resources it warrants.

The Importance of Comprehensive Coverage

The open letter highlights the severe implications of obesity, particularly for women and women of color, emphasizing the necessity for inclusive healthcare strategies. The participating organizations, which include the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions and the Obesity Care Advocacy Network, collectively stress the need for a shift in how obesity is perceived and managed in workplace health policies.

Millicent Gorham, CEO of AWHP, asserts, "Employers have been making great strides in supporting employees living with obesity, and we want to see that momentum continue so that even more employees—and especially women—nationwide can access the care they need." This statement reflects a growing recognition of obesity as a chronic health condition that requires proactive management.

Key Principles for Employers

The letter outlines three guiding principles for employers, aiming to foster a supportive and equitable environment for employees living with obesity:
1. Recognizing obesity as a chronic disease: Employers should understand that obesity has complex causes, many of which are beyond an individual's control.
2. Reviewing benefits offerings: There is a call for a thorough examination of existing benefits to enhance support for obesity care, ensuring clear communication of coverage priorities.
3. Combatting weight bias: Companies are urged to actively oppose weight bias at all organizational levels and embed inclusive practices within their workplace culture.

The Broader Impact of Obesity

Obesity not only affects individuals' health but also has social and economic repercussions. Research highlights that women dealing with obesity often experience diminished earning potential—up to 12% less than their non-obese counterparts—and face barriers to promotions. The implications are profound, with a significant portion of women reporting that obesity impacts their careers and aspirations. An AWHP survey revealed that a surprising one-third of women feel their work and career ambitions are hindered by their condition.

As Shawn Gremminger, President and CEO of the National Alliance of Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions, points out, the financial burden of obesity extends to employers and the broader healthcare system. Therefore, supporting obesity care isn't just a moral obligation—it's an economic imperative as well.

Changing Perspectives on Obesity

Despite increasing awareness, many employers remain hesitant about recognizing obesity as a chronic condition. Recent data shows that while approximately half of employers are contemplating coverage for obesity medications, a minimal subset sees obesity as worthy of such support. This disconnect highlights a critical need for advocacy and education within corporate structures regarding the health impacts of obesity.

George Huntley, CEO of the Diabetes Leadership Council, reinforces the message, stating, "Obesity is a chronic yet treatable disease that affects over 1 in 3 American women. It is crucial for everyone, especially employers, to extend support and access to appropriate obesity care options."

A National Movement

Launched in February 2024, the EveryBODY Covered campaign strives to ensure that access to obesity care is a priority nationwide. With initiatives from a range of partners, stakeholders are working vigorously to reshape the dialogue around obesity and promote best practices in care management.

The open letter's momentum signals a pivotal shift in the conversation surrounding health equity and comprehensive care for obesity. As employers reevaluate their role in employee health, they are poised to deliver more inclusive and beneficial healthcare offerings.

For further insights into the EveryBODY Covered campaign and to support these initiatives, visit everybodycovered.org.

Conclusion

This growing coalition of organizations advocates for a healthier future, where obesity care is seen not just through a lifestyle lens but as a critical component of overall health. The push for recognition and equitable coverage stands as a testament to the collective action needed to change the landscape of healthcare in the workplace.