NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — Tennessee lawmakers are moving forward with a rule change that would allow TennCare to cover FDA-approved weight-loss drugs for the treatment of obesity — a shift supporters say could improve health outcomes for thousands of low-income residents, but one that critics warn could come with a high price tag.
Until now, TennCare has covered medications like Wegovy and similar drugs when prescribed for conditions such as diabetes or heart disease. The new rule removes a long-standing prohibition on using public funds to cover those same drugs when they are prescribed specifically to treat obesity.
Supporters say the change could help patients address obesity earlier, potentially preventing more serious and expensive health conditions down the line, including diabetes, heart disease and strokes. State officials say doctors typically require lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, before turning to medication…