Obesity & Medicare

[KMT (Kathy Sever)]

Medicare should cover weight loss drugs for obesity. Obesity is a disease. Prescriptions from a Dr should be covered under Medicare with a low copay. If I can prevent diabetes or other health issues with this medication it should be covered. I’m not referring to someone who wants to lose 10 pounds for an event. Prior to 65, I was on a medication that I had a $25.00 copay. Once I turned 65, Medicare and my Medicare Advantage plan will not cover my medication. My Dr says that based on my history, test results, and family history I will need to be on this drug for life at least on a maintenance dosage. Currently I am paying $1025.00 a month for a drug less than a year ago was $25.00 a month. In retirement, I’ve had to go back to work to pay for my medication. Obesity has qualified as a disease. People with high blood pressure, a disease, are not told their medication coverage will stop when they go on Medicare.