Medicare covers certain obesity-related treatments like counseling and surgeries but typically not weight loss programs for general health. It also currently doesn’t cover obesity medications, though CMS has proposed an expansion of coverage.
Obesity is a chronic health condition characterized by excess body fat that can harm health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines adult obesity as having a body mass index (BMI) of
The National Institutes of Health shares that 2017 to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data showed that
While Medicare generally doesn’t cover weight loss programs, it may provide coverage for certain other services or treatments for managing obesity. Read on to learn what Medicare does and doesn’t cover for the treatment of obesity.
Generally speaking, Medicare Part A covers any procedure you have while hospitalized, whereas Part B covers outpatient consultations and medical care.
Intensive behavioral therapy for obesity is one type of obesity service that Original Medicare (parts A and B) could cover.
To be eligible under Part B, your BMI must be 30 or higher, and you must receive treatment from your primary care doctor. This treatment may typically involve an initial screening, a dietary assessment, and guidance on diet and exercise.
The treatment may also include bariatric surgery. To be eligible under Part A, your BMI must be 35 or higher, and your medical history must reflect the ineffectiveness of previous nonsurgical treatments. Types of surgery, for example, include gastric bypass and lap band surgery.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are private plans that have to offer the same benefits as Original Medicare. Some plans may offer additional wellness benefits that parts A and B don’t cover.
These benefits may include gym memberships and meal delivery services. Many Part C plans cover the SilverSneakers program.
Medicare doesn’t cover weight loss programs like Weight Watchers (WW). It also doesn’t include weight loss procedures performed for cosmetic reasons, like liposuction.
Also, the benefits of intensive behavioral therapy don’t include the services of a registered dietitian or nutritionist in treating obesity. That’s because Original Medicare only covers the services of a nutritionist if you have diabetes or kidney disease or have had a kidney transplant in the last 36 months.
Part D generally covers prescription medications, but it currently doesn’t cover weight loss drugs such as GLP-1 agonists specifically to treat obesity. It may, however, cover some drugs like Wegovy if you take them while living with obesity for the prevention of stroke or heart disease.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is considering expanding such drug coverage to 2026.
For those services covered under Original Medicare, your cost can include your premiums, deductibles, and copays.
In 2025, after you meet the annual Part B deductible of $257, Part B can pay for 80% of any covered treatment or service.
Regarding Part A, most people don’t pay a premium, and you must meet a $1,676 deductible. Once you do, Part A can cover your hospital stay and any services needed. You incur an additional daily cost if you need to remain in the hospital beyond 60 days.
When it comes to Part C and D plans, private insurers manage these, which vary in cost depending on the plan and where you live.
Obesity is a long-term health issue marked by an excess of body fat. About
While Medicare may cover specific obesity-related treatments like counseling and certain surgeries, it generally doesn’t cover weight loss programs aimed at overall health.
Additionally, it currently excludes obesity medications from coverage, except in certain cases when prescribed to treat additional health conditions.