Scaling efforts to achieve sustainable weight loss
Discover why UnitedHealthcare Total Weight Support may help members maintain better long-term results than weight loss medications alone.
While many employer groups still don't cover drugs for obesity or weight loss at all, those who do are increasingly recognizing that medication alone isn't enough. More than one-third of employers who cover weight loss now require participation in weight management coaching as part of GLP-1 coverage — up from just 10% a year ago.1
The trend reflects a growing problem with adherence and sustainability. UnitedHealthcare claims data shows that less than 50% of GLP-1 users continued to use the drugs after 1 year.2 Plus, research reveals that those who discontinue the medication regain their baseline weight within about a year and a half.3 This pattern has driven costs significantly higher: Employers who covered GLP-1s for their workforces saw their expenses nearly double, according to UnitedHealthcare data.2
Officials at the World Health Organization have advised that medications supporting weight loss must be part of a comprehensive approach including diet and physical activity.4 Clinical evidence validates this guidance: A study found that individuals receiving lifestyle intervention alongside medication maintained greater weight loss after discontinuation of the drugs compared to those without such support.5 In other words, weight loss journeys that include a whole-person approach may be more effective at achieving and sustaining a healthy weight.
The UnitedHealthcare Total Weight Support program addresses both medication adherence and sustainable habit formation through a whole-person, evidence-based approach to weight loss. As part of prior authorization criteria, members engage in monthly coaching sessions that integrate behavioral support, nutrition guidance and assistance with managing side effects — creating a foundation for long-term success that extends beyond medication.
How Total Weight Support works
Eligible employers who offer Total Weight Support can provide employees with access to one of two weight management vendor options: Real Appeal® Rx and WeightWatchers for Business. Certain weight loss medications are covered after an employee enrolls — or in some cases engages — in the specific Total Weight Support program chosen by their employer, provided the member meets clinical criteria.
Real Appeal Rx provides whole-person support addressing medication adherence, nutrition, physical activity and the emotional and social experiences of the GLP-1 weight loss medication journey. This includes:
- Coaching: Live 1:1 and/or group coaching, providing members with personalized support. Members also have access to pharmacists for medication education or adherence-related questions.
- Progress tracking tools: Nutrition, activity, weight and medication trackers may help members make more informed decisions, monitor their progress and celebrate successes.
- Education content: Library of evidence-based educational content so members have access to knowledge and tools for weight loss drugs, nutrition, fitness, mindset, stress and goal setting.
- Success kit: Members receive a physical kit with a smart scale, tape measure, access to a fitness app, Fitness on Demand™, and introductory program content.
WeightWatchers for Business offers behavioral weight management, both virtually and in person. The science-backed, community-driven tailored experiences and tracking methodologies are individualized to help support members in achieving their weight and health goals. This includes:
- Tailored pathways: Nutrition programs for weight health, diabetes, menopause and GLP-1 wraparound, including injection and side effect tracking and targeted nutrition and activity goals to help support medication adherence and sustained results.
- Community support: Members have access to 200+ affinity groups, both in person and on the WW app, to build community and connect with others on similar journeys. Examples include Working Parents, Essential Workers, Living with Diabetes and Taking a GLP-1.
- Coaching and workshops: Hundreds of weekly live coach-led workshops, available in person and virtually, and 24/7 access to chat and support.
- Curated content: Robust libraries of educational content including recipes, meal plans, fitness activities, and meditation and mindfulness tips to help motivate and support members on their holistic weight health journey.
Importantly, Total Weight Support can work alongside GLP-1s for employees with medication coverage or serve as a standalone weight management pathway for those seeking comprehensive support without pharmaceutical intervention. This flexibility allows employers to offer meaningful support across their entire population — regardless of coverage decisions around GLP-1 medications.
The bottom line for employers
By integrating Total Weight Support into benefits packages, employers demonstrate a genuine commitment to employee wellness while reducing long-term health care costs associated with weight-related conditions. The program empowers employees with personalized guidance, ongoing support and resources that address their unique needs, fostering healthier, more engaged workforces with improved productivity and reduced absenteeism.
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