Hospitals and health systems must strategically manage rising GLP-1 costs while balancing workforce health and long-term financial sustainability.
GLP-1 therapies such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are rapidly changing the conversation around obesity, diabetes, and population health. But for hospital and health system executives, the rise in utilization of these medications presents a dual-edged sword: on one hand, the potential for transformational clinical outcomes; on the other, a surge in employer healthcare spending and formulary disruption.
In the latest HealthLeaders Winning Edge webinar, titled “The Winning Edge for Employer GLP-1 Cost Containment,” a panel of healthcare experts examined how health systems and self-insured employers can create responsible, outcomes-oriented benefit strategies that promote access without financial overexposure.
Panelists included Dr. Sandy Baldwin, Chief Medical Officer for Northwell Direct, Bill Lacy, President and CEO of the Association for Corporate Health Risk Management (ACHRM), and Dr. Jeff Post, Chief Clinical Officer at RX Connection.
Together, they offered a compelling roadmap for health systems balancing cost containment, workforce wellness, and innovation. Watch the entire video below.
Marie DeFreitas is the CFO editor for HealthLeaders.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are transforming diabetes and obesity care but pose major cost and management challenges.
Health systems are exploring innovative strategies such as lifestyle program integration, direct-to-manufacturer partnerships, and utilization guardrails.
A thoughtful, customized approach is essential to protect patient safety, ensure clinical effectiveness, and safeguard ROI.