Shaping the Future of Obesity Treatment in Healthcare

Two years ago, conversations around Calibrate’s program typically started with "What's a GLP-1?" At that time, market awareness was limited, and formulary coverage for this class of drugs was scarce outside of diabetes. 

However, in the dynamic landscape of the past two years, GLP-1 coverage is now a central topic, discussed everywhere from social media platforms to global stages. This surge in awareness has prompted increased media attention and a wave of new companies eager to prescribe these "miracle" drugs like Wegovy, Zepbound, Ozempic, and Mounjaro with little to no clinical oversight. Other companies are legacy platforms or chronic condition programs that advertise comprehensive GLP-1 programs but provide a relabeled Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) or lifestyle program. Now, as the conversation shifts, it's time to delve into coverage, access, and real results beyond medication alone to drive sustainable lifestyle changes.

As Calibrate expands partnerships with Employers, PBMs, and Health Plans, we remain steadfast in our commitment to changing the way the world treats weight, and we’re thrilled to share that we’re chipping away at this hefty goal by delivering real results at scale—shown by our 2024 results report that showcase results from our largest cohort of members yet. In this real-world cohort of >16,000 individuals, Calibrate members demonstrated 16% average weight loss at 12 months with sustained results of nearly 18% average weight loss at 24 months. 

Our impact goes beyond the scale with 78% of members who started the program with prediabetes or diabetes achieving normal hemoglobin A1c levels at 12 months. Members also showed enhancements in fasting insulin, triglycerides, LDL, and HDL. The comprehensive results are available for review in our latest Results Report.

The life-changing impact of 18% weight loss over two years is not only beneficial for the individual but for healthcare payers as well. Crucially, Calibrate has demonstrated that change at this scale is achievable by combining transformative behavioral change with clinician-guided obesity treatment (including GLP-1 medication if clinically indicated), even amidst supply chain challenges and coverage restrictions. We've proven that medically assisted obesity treatment is more than providing access to an effective medication like a GLP-1. A holistic program should include a science-backed curriculum, consistent 1:1 accountability coaching, and clinical support. With over four years in the market and a team of obesity experts, we know how to support members in making life-altering and sustainable changes to their metabolic health. 

So what does all of this mean? As benefits and health plan leaders enter their 2024 strategic planning season, I encourage a nuanced review of what can truly move the needle on healthcare costs. Yes, GLP-1 medications can be expensive, but when used on a time-optimized basis and combined with impactful behavior change, it is clear that reducing the total cost of care is possible when the right members gain access to this transformative program. We truly have the opportunity to decrease healthcare costs—all while expanding access to sustainable obesity treatment.

Learn more here.