Negative Consequences of Removing GLP-1 RA Obesity Coverage: A Cross-Sectional Cohort Comparison Study

Area of Science:

• Health Economics
• Workforce Management
• Pharmacoeconomics

Background:

• Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are increasingly prescribed for obesity management.
• Coverage decisions for these medications have significant health and economic implications for both employees and employers.
• Understanding the impact of restricted access to GLP-1 medications is crucial for workforce stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the effects of discontinued GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA) coverage on employee perceptions of their employer.
• To assess the impact on workforce stability and employee well-being following loss of GLP-1 RA coverage for obesity treatment.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of data from employees of a healthcare system that ceased GLP-1 obesity medication coverage.
• Utilized chi-square/Fisher's exact tests and multivariable logistic regression to evaluate outcomes.
• Included 247 adults prescribed GLP-1 for obesity who experienced coverage loss.

Main Results:

• 80.57% of employees reported worsened employer perceptions after losing GLP-1 coverage.
• Nearly 18% considered changing jobs, and almost 50% felt devalued by their employer.
• Burnout was prevalent, with 88.67% experiencing it in the past year; higher earners ($150,000+) were 2.5x more likely to report negative impacts.

Conclusions:

• Loss of GLP-1 RA coverage is associated with decreased employee satisfaction, increased burnout, and higher turnover risk.
• Disparities in reported impact among racial/ethnic groups may indicate differing perceptions of job mobility.
• The negative consequences on workforce stability could counteract the intended cost savings from coverage restrictions.