SB 1421, An Act Concerning Medicaid Coverage For Obesity Treatment

TESTIMONY OF THE CONNECTICUT HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION
SUBMITTED TO THE HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE

Thursday, March 6, 2025

The Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) appreciates this opportunity to submit testimony concerning SB 1421, An Act Concerning Medicaid Coverage For Obesity Treatment. CHA supports this bill.

Connecticut hospitals and health systems care for patients, strengthen the state’s economy, and support vulnerable communities across the state. Every day, they work to improve healthcare access, affordability, and health equity. Even as they face ongoing challenges, hospitals provide world-class care to everyone who walks through their doors, regardless of their ability to pay. Hospitals also support an exemplary workforce as the largest collective employer in the state, contribute significantly to the state’s economy, and invest in their communities addressing social drivers of health.

The prevalence of obesity in Connecticut continues to rise with a significant increase observed over a decade of about 24.5% and 30.6% between 2011 and 2022. Efforts to reduce obesity have primarily focused on promoting access to affordable healthy food, promoting physical activity, and improving community spaces to support healthy lifestyle choices. Obesity has associated health risks such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, joint and bone problems, and mental health issues that can be prevented with effective weight loss.

SB 1421 requires the state to pursue cost-effective alternatives to brand name drugs prescribed to HUSKY Health program members for obesity treatment, such as glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) prescription drugs approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Passage of SB 1421 would provide an opportunity to bring together experts who can study and recommend pathways for maximizing access and minimizing the cost of such drugs for the treatment of obesity in the Medicaid population.

GLP-1 medications are a proven means to reduce weight and the associated risks of other chronic diseases due to obesity. Some of the associated benefits besides effective weight loss are improved blood sugar control and reduced risk for heart disease. With the recent approval of generic alternatives by the FDA, we have an opportunity to ensure all patients with Medicaid coverage can access this important and effective treatment.

Connecticut hospitals and health systems work in partnership with their community partners to promote access to nutritious foods and opportunities to be physically active. A healthy diet and increased activity, when combined with GLP-1 medications, can lead to sustained weight loss and improved overall health. CHA supports this bill for its potential to improve the health of patients with obesity and reduce avoidable healthcare utilization and associated costs.

Thank you for your consideration of our position. For additional information, contact CHA Government Relations at (203) 294-7301.