In House Committee·Last action 481 days ago

Medicare patients could get more obesity care and weight-loss drug coverage

Officially: Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2023

Medicare patients could get obesity counseling from more kinds of providers and approved community programs. Medicare drug plans could also cover some weight-loss medicines, but that change would wait two years.

Where it stands

Sitting in House Committee

No vote scheduled. Constituent contact is what moves bills out of committee.

What this bill actually does

The Health and Human Services Secretary could let more providers offer Medicare-covered obesity counseling. This would expand coverage beyond primary care providers.
More types of providers could qualify. The list includes physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, clinical psychologists, registered dietitians, nutrition professionals, and approved community lifestyle counseling programs.
Non-primary-care providers and community programs would need a referral before Medicare pays. They would also have to coordinate with a doctor or primary care provider.

↓ Why your message matters here

This bill is sitting in committee with no scheduled vote — which means a small number of constituent messages can decide whether it moves forward or quietly dies.

Where this bill is in the process

Legislative timeline

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Introduced

Introduced in House

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House Committee

Under House committee consideration

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House Floor Vote

Voted on by House

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Passed House

Approved by House

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Senate Review

Sent to Senate for consideration

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Passed Both Chambers

Approved by both House and Senate

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Signed into Law

Signed by the President

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Medicare patients could get more obesity care and weight-loss drug coverage

Legislative timeline

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