EncircleRx, a program helping employers control the cost of GLP-1 drugs for weight-loss, has reached 2 million enrollees in its first six months.
Cigna launched the program in March, which it called the "first-ever" GLP-1 management program with a financial guarantee for health plans.
GLP-1 medications approved for weight loss include Wegovy, Saxenda and Zepbound. These drugs can cost upward of $1,000 a month. On an Aug. 1 call with investors, Cigna CEO David Cordani said GLP-1s are expected to be the No.1 driver of pharmacy benefit trends for plans of all sizes in 2024.
Eric Palmer, president and CEO of Evernorth, Cigna's health services business, told investors the program is "growing nicely," reaching 2 million enrollees.
Around 50% of plan sponsors are choosing to cover the cost of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss for their beneficiaries, Mr. Palmer said.
Some estimates predict as many as one in 10 people in the U.S. will be prescribed a GLP-1 drug in the next decade, Mr. Cordani told investors.
"Looking ahead, we expect the use of these medications to continue to grow, and that is part of the growth algorithm for Evernorth," he said.