KFF Health Tracking Poll: Drug Costs, Trump Actions, & GLP-1 Use
Here’s a summary of the key findings from the provided text regarding GLP-1 drugs (like Ozempic and Wegovy):
* Availability & FDA Concerns: Despite recent FDA calls to halt their sale and production, compounded versions of GLP-1 drugs remain available to consumers.
* Source of medication: The majority (76%) of adults obtaining GLP-1 drugs get them from their primary care doctor or a specialist. A significant minority (17%) get them from online providers, and 9% from medical spas.
* Insurance Coverage: Most users (70%) have some insurance coverage for these drugs. 48% have partial coverage, and 22% have full coverage.
* Out-of-Pocket Costs: 27% of those with insurance still pay the full cost themselves. The average list price is around $1,000/month.
* Trump Administration Action: President Trump announced deals with drug manufacturers to offer lower prices directly to consumers and expanded Medicare/Medicaid coverage through a pilot program.
* Affordability Issues: Even with insurance, over half (56%) of users find these drugs arduous to afford, with 25% describing it as “very difficult.”
In essence, while GLP-1 drugs are popular and frequently enough covered by insurance, affordability remains a significant barrier for many. the FDA is also cracking down on compounded versions, despite their continued availability.
