A new classification of obesity as a disease could add bulk to bottom lines. But health problems caused by too much weight are growing more costly.
Medicare announced earlier this month that it considers obesity an illness. That means at least some treatments that weren't could be covered. It also means private insurers may have to start covering treatments they haven't covered in the past. "Medicare is the tail that wags the dog when it comes to insurance coverage," said Dr. Francis Neelon, Rice Diet Program medical director.
One large HMO, seeing the rising costs associated with obesity, has already taken a unique approach to the problem. Kaiser Permanente is educating doctors about approaching patients who need to change their behavior.
"Clinicians and other caregivers are frustrated because they don't know what works or how to have the best conversations with their members," said Dr. William Caplan, director of clinical development at Kaiser Permanente.
Training doctors and nurses is one part of the Weight Management and Obesity Initiative launched in January 2002 by Kaiser Permanente's Care Management Institute. The effort also encompasses research, legislative and public policy, and community partnerships.
"The organization is taking this quite seriously. We are providing the opportunity to share learning between regions, as well as effective programs, interventions and tools," Caplan said.