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Medically supervised weight-loss program reduced health care costs

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Obese adults incur $2,714 more in health care costs compared with adults of normal weight, according to researchers. However, a medically supervised weight-loss program has the potential to reduce medication costs by up to $215 per month, according to data presented at Obesity Week 2013.

Brown University medical researcher Clay P. Wiske and colleagues conducted a retrospective crossover study of previously published data in the Journal of Health Economics for their study that included 589 patients who participated in a medically supervised behavioral weight-management program for 16 to 24 weeks.

Patients’ average weight at baseline was 247.4 lb, with an average weight loss of 44.4 lb (95% CI, 42.1-46.7), according to data.

In addition, the cost of medications decreased by $73 per month. This decrease was greater among patients with diabetes ($214.91; 95% CI, 169.91-261.42); hyperlipidemia ($123.87; 95% CI, 102.69-146.73); hypertension ($107.21; 95% CI, 86.53-131.72); and gastroesophageal reflux disease ($81.19; 95% CI, 65.40-97.57).

Wholesale monthly costs of medications decreased by $72.85 at treatment end (95% CI, 63.18-85.77), according to abstract data.

“There’s no doubt: Medically supervised weight loss reduces the need for medication and the associated costs,” Wiske said in a press release. “The decrease in medication expense is tied closely to the degree of weight loss: meaning the more weight patients lose, the less they will spend on medication. Insurers should take note of this cost savings; it's an impetus for covering medically supervised weight loss.”

In a press release, Adam Tsai, MD, of the University of Colorado and The Obesity Society’s public affairs chair, said obesity is one of the most complex, chronic medical conditions

“Successful treatment often requires the support and guidance of professionals. It’s clear from this and other studies that there are considerable health and economic benefits when individuals with obesity lose substantial amounts of weight,” Tsai said in the release.

For more information:

Wiske CP. Abstract T-34-OR. Presented at: Obesity Week; Nov. 11-15, 2013; Atlanta.

Disclosure: Wiske reports no relevant financial disclosures.