Republicans and Democrats Agree: GLP-1 Medications Should Be Covered by Medicare and Medicaid
New national poll reveals stark contrast between public opinion and RFK Jr.’s proposed cuts tovital health programs
Nearly 70% of Trump voters back expanded access to life-changing GLP-1 therapies
WASHINGTON, D.C. and LEXINGTON, KY – February 26, 2025 – A groundbreaking national pollconducted on behalf of the Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition (DPAC) reveals overwhelmingbipartisan support for Medicare and Medicaid coverage of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1)receptor agonist drugs—also known as anti-obesity medications—with a majority of Americansagreeing that expanded access could enhance U.S. productivity and global competitiveness.Notably, nearly 70% of Republicans and Trump voters support Medicare and Medicaid coveragefor GLP-1 medications, a stance that directly opposes the approach of newly appointed U.S.Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
“The data is clear: voters across the political spectrum understand the transformative impact ofGLP-1 medications, which have already improved countless lives,” said George Huntley, CEO ofthe Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition and Diabetes Leadership Council. “Limiting access tothese therapies isn’t just poor policy that undermines our fight against obesity—it’s a directcontradiction to the priorities of Republican voters and the American public at large.”
GLP-1 medications, currently FDA-approved for individuals with obesity (a BMI of 30 or higher)or those with a BMI of 27 or higher who have at least one weight-related condition such asType 2 diabetes or hypertension, have the potential to address a significant public health need.According to a study published in JAMA Cardiology, 137 million U.S. adults—more than half ofthe adult population—are eligible for these treatments. Despite growing awareness, with 85%of poll respondents reporting familiarity with GLP-1 drugs, access remains a critical barrier formany due to high costs and restrictive coverage policies.
“As we work toward a healthier future, it is imperative that we reduce coverage barriers andmake these life-changing obesity medications available for the at-risk Medicare and Medicaidpopulations who need them most,” said John Anderson, MD, Board Member, DiabetesLeadership Council. “We call on policymakers to heed the science and the overwhelming publicdemand for equitable access to GLP-1 therapies.”The study findings show broad bipartisan agreement and overall support for expanded
coverage of GLP-1 medications:
- 73% agree that providing coverage could help the U.S. be more productive and globallycompetitive.
- 72% agree that coverage under Medicare and Medicaid should be on a par with accessunder the Federal Employee Health Benefits program. This is the most compellingargument among people skeptical or neutral regarding obesity medications’ overallimpact.
- 68% agree that Medicare coverage could help patients avoid losing access to treatmentswhen they turn 65.
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