Cigna will stop covering GLP-1s for weight loss through its own employee health plan July 1, the company confirmed to Becker’s.
“We regularly review our health benefits to ensure they remain sustainable, accessible and aligned with the unique needs of our workforce. As availability has increased and new options have emerged, we’ve made the decision to end our plan’s coverage for GLP-1s for weight loss,” a company spokesperson said. “We remain committed to supporting our employees’ health through a range of weight-management programs and resources.”
The change will not apply to those using GLP-1s for diabetes, the spokesperson said. It also will not apply to Cigna plans beyond its own, a spokesperson confirmed to Reuters, which first reported the development June 2. GLP-1 users for weight loss have until June 30 to obtain refills.
An internal document reviewed by Reuters said employees can pay for these drugs with cash directly through manufacturer websites or TrumpRx. However, that spending would not count toward deductibles. Cigna will continue to cover generic weight-loss drugs that predate GLP-1s, such as phentermine, diethylpropion, benzphetamine and phendimetrazine, according to Reuters.
Cigna joins a wave of healthcare employers cutting back GLP-1 access for their workers as cost pressures mount.
In recent years, Cigna has built a suite of GLP-1 benefit programs for employer clients through its Evernorth and Express Scripts arms, including a program that offers employers a financial guarantee to cap drug spend on weight-loss drugs. Evernorth has previously said that about 50% of its clients have chosen to cover GLP-1s for weight loss.
Cigna has about 67,700 employees, according to its website. Cigna did not respond to a question as to how many employees would be affected by the update.
At the Becker's 5th Annual Fall Payer Issues Roundtable, taking place November 2–3 in Chicago, payer executives and healthcare leaders will come together to discuss value-based care, regulatory changes, cost management strategies and innovations shaping the future of payer-provider collaboration. Apply for complimentary registration now.