Jacqueline M. Stephens, PhD, FTOS, president of The Obesity Society (TOS), the leading scientific organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, and treatment of obesity, released the following statement on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) launch of the BALANCE Model.

“The BALANCE Model represents meaningful progress toward modernizing obesity care across Medicaid and Medicare Part D. Addressing drug costs and encouraging coordinated participation among state Medicaid programs and Medicare plans is an important step toward improving access to evidence-based treatment.

While key details around implementation and eligibility remain to be defined, this effort reflects a necessary and promising move forward. Expanding access to proven obesity treatments through public programs has the potential to improve long-term health outcomes and reduce disparities for people living with obesity.

We encourage State Medicaid agencies and Medicare Part D plans to participate in the BALANCE Model and to engage directly with CMS as the program continues to take shape. This model presents an important opportunity to expand equitable access to evidence-based obesity treatments.

As the nation’s leading scientific and clinical professional organization focused on obesity, The Obesity Society stands ready to collaborate with CMS and participating partners to ensure the BALANCE Model delivers measurable improvements in access, quality, and equity across the full continuum of obesity care.”

About The Obesity Society (TOS)

The Obesity Society (TOS) is the leading scientific organization dedicated to advancing the understanding, prevention, and treatment of obesity. Through research, education, and evidence-based advocacy, TOS promotes a comprehensive and science-driven approach to addressing obesity as a serious, chronic, and treatable disease. The Society’s members include scientists, clinicians, policymakers, and other professionals working to improve health outcomes and reduce the global impact of obesity. Learn more at www.obesity.org.