California is denying weight loss drugs to the poor despite Trumps efforts at affordability

California is denying popular and effective weight loss drugs to poor people — likely to spite President Donald Trump, who has tried to make them cheaper.As a result, only those who can afford to pay for anti-obesity drugs out of pocket will be able to use them.

So much for “affordability.”The issue involves GLP-1 medicines, like Zepbound and Wegovy, which represent one of the most significant medical advances in the treatment of obesity in decades.For millions of Americans, these medications, when combined with diet and exercise, improve health outcomes, reduce excess weight, and lower the risk of serious chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and certain cancers.Lifestyle changes such as healthy diets, exercise, and better sleep are all proven methods of reducing obesity and staying healthy.But for some, lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough.

In those cases, GLP-1 medicines provide people with another tool to treat a chronic disease that, if left unmanaged, drives long-term health complications and costs.Providing coverage for anti-obesity medication gives people of all means another way to stay healthy by tacking obesity.That makes California’s decision to end Medi-Cal coverage of GLP-1s for obesity a troubling setback for Golden State residents.

This move robs working and low-income families of an effective and affordable means to improve their well-being and avoid other infirmities.The result is a two-tiered system of care.Patients with financial means can access these medications through private insurance or out-of-pocket payment.Meanwhile, many lower-income Californians will lose coverage entirely.

Those at highest risk for obesity-related complications are left with fewer options to prevent themIt is likely not coincidental that California’s decision directly contradicts the efforts of President Trump.His administration recently partnered with GLP-1 manufacturers to expand access to seniors with Medicare and low-...