Transforming Employee Healthcare for a Global Manufacturing Company
HealthCheck360's Advocacy Program empowers employees to make informed healthcare decisions and deliver measurable and impactful results for our...
5 min read
Coach Trent
:
Jun 30, 2025 4:52:05 PM
Key Highlights
Fueled by media attention, celebrity endorsements, and direct-to-consumer marketing, these drugs have quickly gained mainstream awareness in the health and wellness landscape. But for employers and insurance brokers, the conversation has shifted from “Should we cover GLP-1s?” to “How can we cover them responsibly?”
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 100 million U.S. adults have obesity, defined by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher. With up to 40% of U.S. adults meeting the clinical criteria for GLP-1s and monthly costs exceeding $1,000 per user, the financial implications are staggering.
Employers are facing mounting pressure from employees to offer coverage, while brokers are tasked with balancing access and affordability. Without a strategy, GLP-1s could become a driver of runaway pharmacy costs in employer-sponsored health plans.
Fortunately, there are options. Let’s unpack the facts around GLP-1s, explore smart strategies to manage utilization, and see how HealthCheck360 is helping organizations implement thoughtful, scalable solutions.
Understanding the Two Types of GLP-1 Medications
It’s important to first distinguish between the two primary categories of GLP-1 medications:
In this article, we’re focusing on the weight-loss side of the GLP-1 conversation—where demand is rising and costs are climbing. HealthCheck360’s solutions are built to help employers address this challenge effectively, without compromising care for those managing diabetes.
The Financial Risk of GLP-1 Coverage
GLP-1s for weight loss have exploded in popularity since 2021 due to aggressive marketing and high-profile endorsements. As a result, employers who previously covered these medications with little concern are now seeing unexpected spikes in utilization—and costs.
A single GLP-1 prescription can cost up to $1,300 per month. Multiply that by a dozen employees, and your plan’s pharmacy expense quickly balloons. For employers who cover these medications, the budgetary impact is real and growing. For employers who have opted not to cover GLP-1s yet, pressure from employees and HR teams is mounting.
The risk isn’t just cost—it’s also misuse. Unrestricted access can lead to off-label use for cosmetic weight loss, low adherence, and minimal long-term benefits. Without guardrails, employers risk paying top dollar for short-term results.
Balancing GLP-1 Support and Cost
Sustainable weight loss with GLP-1s requires more than just a prescription. With the right support, participants are more likely to avoid side effects, low engagement, and disappointing outcomes. That’s why HealthCheck360 pairs every GLP-1 user with a dedicated health coach.
This high-touch, one-on-one support includes:
GLP-1 Coverage Models with HealthCheck360
While GLP-1 coverage decisions ultimately rest with the employer and their benefits partners, the success of those decisions depends heavily on what’s built around them.
That’s where HealthCheck360 comes in. Our tools and coaching programs are designed to integrate seamlessly with any coverage model—ensuring that, no matter how access is structured, members receive the support they need to succeed, and employers maintain control over outcomes and costs.
Let’s break down the options for GLP-1 coverage.
No matter which coverage path is preferred—PBM integration, HRA reimbursement, or RxSaveCard—HealthCheck360 offers scalable solutions to enhance that model and drive real results.
GLP-1s are here to stay. With growing demand and expanding use cases, brokers and employers need a plan. Dynamic options aren’t just a nice-to-have, they’re essential for meeting the diverse needs of today’s workforce and managing the evolving landscape of GLP-1 medications.
Why Multiple GLP-1 Coverage Options Benefit Employers
Want a behind-the-scenes look at how brokers are helping employers manage GLP-1 medications - without sacrificing budget or care options? Download our infographic with five factors you need to know to manage GLP-1 utilization.
Let’s Talk Strategy: Partner With HealthCheck360
HealthCheck360 offers a smarter, safer way to integrate GLP-1s into your benefits strategy. Whether your clients cover these medications or not, there’s a path forward that balances access, accountability, and affordability.
HealthCheck360 offers scalable solutions that meet employers where they are. Let’s build a benefit model that works—for your clients, your employees, and your bottom line.
Ready to talk strategy? Contact HealthCheck360 today to explore your options!
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