The recent decision by the Trump administration to overturn a rule proposed by President Joe Biden has caused quite a stir. This rule was designed to make anti-obesity drugs, specifically GLP-1 medications, more affordable for 7.4 million Americans. I believe reversing this decision was a grave error, as these drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, have the potential to revolutionize treatment. I speak from personal experience.
Back in July, my doctor prescribed Mounjaro, a drug that’s primarily for treating Type 2 diabetes. I’m a stroke survivor, and research showed promise in its ability to lower the risk of major cardiac events, which caught my attention. The FDA had recently approved a variant of Mounjaro specifically for weight loss.
Although my initial concern was my heart health, the medication transformed my overall well-being. Issues like aches, pains, and stiffness vanished. I felt as though I had turned back the clock a decade. My mind was clearer, my outlook brighter, and as a side note, I dropped about 20 pounds. And it’s not just me; countless others have experienced similarly remarkable improvements, irrespective of their original motivation for starting these medications.
These medications don’t just aid weight loss—they also lower blood sugar, cholesterol, heart rate, and reduce heart inflammation. Emerging research even indicates potential benefits in curbing alcohol addiction and supporting cognitive function, potentially delaying or preventing conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Let me make one thing crystal clear: I’m not receiving any compensation for sharing my experience. I’m simply someone who has witnessed the positive impact of these medications and wishes for others to have the same opportunity.
Unfortunately, drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro carry a hefty price tag, sometimes costing up to $1,000 per month without insurance. Medicare covers these drugs only in specific situations, like diabetes or increased heart risk, and Medicaid benefits are even more constrained.
In November, President Biden set out to change the landscape. His proposal aimed at broadening access to these medications, potentially assisting 3.4 million Americans on Medicare and four million on Medicaid, slashing out-of-pocket costs by as much as 95%.
This initiative was exactly the type of governmental action we need—lowering expenses for the American public.
The conversation isn’t solely about cost vs. benefit; it’s about enhancing the quality of life for countless Americans. Yes, expanding coverage might hike Medicare spending. However, Medicare has the leverage to negotiate better prices, and the staggering costs of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease already impose over a trillion dollars on the U.S. economy annually. Taking action now ensures a healthier population moving forward.
Critics, including figures like Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., suggest focusing on improving diets rather than medication. I absolutely agree on the importance of diet and lifestyle. Nevertheless, for many battling severe health problems, medication is often their lifeline to regaining enough stability to embrace healthier lifestyle changes.
Biden’s initiative wasn’t just sound policy—it was a vital response to a serious national health issue. With nearly half of American adults facing obesity, a condition tied to leading causes of death like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, enhancing access to these drugs isn’t about aesthetics; it’s about granting millions a genuine shot at a healthier life.
If Trump and Kennedy are earnest about boosting American health, it’s critical to equip people with effective tools.
I’ve long maintained that no single political party owns the market on good ideas. This belief is why I frequently strive for bipartisanship and seek common ground. It’s why I engaged with Trump’s cabinet nominees and supported some, and it’s also why I met with Trump personally.
In an ideal world, our government’s main goal should be to make essential medications affordable and accessible. Biden’s rule represented the kind of pragmatic solution often discussed in D.C. but seldom realized.
I urge the Trump administration and Mr. Kennedy to revisit this rule and make it a reality.
