GLI Statement on the CMS 2026 Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule and Anti-Obesity Medication Coverage
WASHINGTON, DC – On Friday, April 4, 2025, the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) released the 2026 Medicare Advantage and Part D Final Rule and decided not to finalize the proposed rule to extend obesity treatment coverage to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. Unfortunately, this leaves many Americans without evidenced-based treatment for obesity, a major driver of liver disease.
GLI is disappointed by this decision not to extend coverage of obesity medications. Coverage of these medications are pivotal in practicing preventative medicine, as research has closely linked the presence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH/NASH) to metabolic comorbidities such as obesity and diabetes. This will cost the U.S. healthcare system millions of dollars in treating the expensive diseases associated with obesity. We will continue to fiercely advocate for access and coverage of anti-obesity medications to ensure patients are able to both treat and prevent chronic disease.
Prior to this decision, we had joined over 80 organizations as part of the Obesity Action Coalition to urge the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to finalize this rule. CMS has acknowledged that obesity is a chronic disease and, just like other health conditions, requires treatment and specialized care. With more than three-quarters of Americans supporting the proposed rule to expand crucial access to obesity treatment, GLI calls upon Congress to introduce and enact legislation to provide access to the critical coverage needed for Americans.
Despite this decision, GLI will continue to work relentlessly to fight on behalf of liver patients across the U.S. to make these critical and life-changing medications accessible to those who need them the most. If we are not addressing obesity, for many patients, we are not addressing liver diseases.
About Global Liver Institute
Global Liver Institute (GLI) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded in the belief that liver health must take its place on the global public health agenda commensurate with the prevalence and impact of liver illness. GLI promotes innovation, encourages collaboration, and supports the scaling of optimal approaches to help eradicate liver diseases. Operating globally, GLI is committed to solving the problems that matter to liver patients and equipping advocates to improve the lives of individuals and families impacted by liver disease. GLI holds Platinum Transparency with Candid/GuideStar, is a member of the National Health Council, and serves as a Healthy People 2030 Champion. Follow GLI on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube or visit www.globalliver.org.