Obesity is a Chronic Condition: Reducing Co-Morbidities through Effective Weight Management Programs

Agenda

It's evident that the underlying cause impacting many chronic conditions today is obesity.  The health consequences are not only profound and costly to society, but are at epidemic proportions.
As employers, WE have the power to make the greatest difference in helping people change poor health behaviors. We also have an obligation to manage health care costs - addressing obesity with employees and families within the context of health and wellness strategies is crucial. Employers continue to seek solutions that can provide long-term sustainability and positive health outcomes. To support them, this program is designed to help participants gain a broad understanding of:

• The total health, productivity and cost impacts of obesity
• The current landscape of employer strategies and tactics to prevent and manage obesity
• An overview of nationally-based programs and research on effectivenes
• Employer innovations in benefit design strategies and outcomes-based incentive approaches focused on reaching certain biometric measures to help move people in the right direction
• Recently approved weight loss medications, including:

• FDA guidance on incorporating coverage into the broader strategy to prevent and manage obesity
• Strategies for incorporating prescription weight loss medications into benefit plan design
• A framework for employers to consider with weight loss medication coverage and strategy integration

Program Sponsor: Vivus