Nutrition & Weight Loss
Obesity is a chronic condition that affects more than one in three adults in the United States. Being overweight or obese increases your risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, fatty liver disease, kidney disease, and other health issues.
Research shows that even a modest weight loss of 5 percent can result in health benefits.
If you are struggling with your weight, you may find that a healthy eating plan and regular physical activity help you lose weight and keep it off over the long term.
Set SMART goals for losing weight, or goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-sensitive. Examples include:
- Walk 30 minutes a day 3 days a week for 2 months
- Replace soda with water every day for the next month
Talk with your provider for more information.
Weight Loss/Obesity Management Medications (GLP-1)
What are the most common GLP-1 weight loss medications?
Wegovy (semaglutide) and Zepbound (tirzepitide). It is recommended that you contact your insurance company and review your formulary to determine coverage and any prior authorization requirements unique to your plan.
What if my medication is out of stock?
Your prescription can be transferred to other pharmacies with stock available. This is done by asking the pharmacy with stock to request the transfer from the existing pharmacy holding the prescription. Please check other pharmacies for availability prior to requesting a change in therapy.
If you are unable to locate the medication, contact your insurance company to discuss covered alternatives on your formulary and any prior authorization requirements. Oftentimes, you can review formulary coverage via an insurance app on your phone or online. If a change in therapy is needed, please reach out to us so your provider can determine if switching to another medication is medically appropriate. An appointment may be required to determine a new plan of care.
How is my dose determined?
Dosing is unique to each patient. Changes in dosage/medication and refills may require additional appointments.
My insurance listed Mounjaro and Ozempic as alternatives. Can my healthcare provider prescribe one of these for weight loss?
While these medications may be listed as alternatives by your insurance for the treatment of weight loss and obesity management, insurance prior authorization guidelines require a Type II Diabetes diagnosis and other clinical criteria be met for approval. While it may not be covered by insurance per your plan guidelines, you can pay out of pocket for these medications if prescribed.
Does my insurance require prior authorization? If so, is there a fee?
Most GLP-1 medications require prior authorization. This is a clinical process required by your health insurance company to determine if they will cover the cost of a specific medication. Our office charges a $60 PA administrative fee per medication for this process. This fee is non-billable to insurance and is not a guarantee of approval. We recommend that you contact your insurance company and review your formulary to determine coverage and any prior authorization requirements. If a change in therapy is requested and it results in a prior authorization, an additional PA fee will apply.
Why do I need a follow-up appointment?
Your healthcare provider may require regular follow-up visits to monitor your progress, adjust medication dosages, and address any concerns or questions you may have.
Can I pay out of pocket for my medication?
Yes, and by doing so, you will bypass any insurance requirements for prior authorization. Please let your pharmacy know to process your prescription as out of pocket/self-pay and if you will be using any copay cards if applicable.