Would subsidising weight loss drugs make health care fairer?

The introduction of GLP-1 medicines like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro has revolutionized obesity treatment, but in Australia, access to these drugs is often determined by affordability. Approximately half a million Australians use GLP-1 medicines, with nearly half purchasing them privately at a cost of $200 to $700 per month. As calls for government subsidies to these medicines grow, a crucial question arises: will subsidizing GLP-1 medicines make Australian healthcare fairer, or would resources be better allocated to addressing the factors that contribute to obesity, such as affordable nutrition, healthcare access, and opportunities for physical activity?

GLP-1 medicines prove effective while in use, with a 2025 review showing an average weight loss of about 11% of body weight and most individuals maintaining that loss for up to two years if continued. However, the primary barrier to ongoing use is cost, with many users discontinuing treatment within six months due to financial constraints. This cessation often leads to significant weight regain, suggesting GLP-1 medicines may function better as a long-term treatment for chronic conditions rather than a quick fix.

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are not evenly distributed across Australia's population, with higher rates among those facing socioeconomic disadvantages, in rural and remote areas, and among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. This disparity complicates the issue of who should bear the cost of treatment. The burden of obesity and its complications falls disproportionately on those least able to afford effective treatments, creating a paradox where those most burdened by the condition may struggle to access its most effective solution.

When access to GLP-1 medicines becomes financially inaccessible, some individuals may turn to black-market sources, which may not provide the necessary medical, nutritional, and psychological support for safe use. While subsidizing these medicines could extend effective obesity treatment to those currently unable to afford it, this alone would not address the broader social and environmental factors contributing to obesity's unequal spread.

Australia still requires investments in affordable nutritious food, prevention, primary healthcare, and environments that promote physical activity.

Ultimately, while making GLP-1 medicines more accessible is a step towards fairer healthcare, it is equally vital to tackle the underlying social conditions that perpetuate obesity. Fair treatment extends beyond financial accessibility to encompass a holistic approach to health that addresses the root causes of the condition.