The University of Iowa is offering eligible employees the opportunity to participate in a two-year pilot program that provides insurance coverage for FDA-approved GLP-1 weight management medications.

The UI GLP-1 Pilot Program is part of the institution's effort to prioritize the physical, mental, and financial well-being of our community.

"The goal of the pilot is to measure the feasibility of a GLP-1 program for weight management that is flexible, accessible, and financially sustainable for our employees and the institution," says Joni Troester, senior assistant vice president for total rewards and deputy chief human resources officer.

"We are assessing the feasibility of covering GLP-1 medications within our existing health plans."

The pilot program is centered around medications that mimic the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). The hormone plays an important role in regulating appetite and blood sugar levels. GLP-1 medications, such as FDA-approved Zepbound and Wegovy, are known to help people lose weight and enhance their overall metabolic health.

Up to 500 participating employees will receive these treatments under the supervision of designated UI Health Care providers. The goal is to enroll as many eligible employees as possible without overburdening health care providers and maintaining affordability for the institution.

"The UI recognizes the challenges associated with maintaining a healthy weight and the health risks associated with obesity. We are committed to providing resources to help our faculty and staff achieve their health goals," Troester says.

"The pilot program is designed to equip employees with the necessary tools and support to make sustainable lifestyle changes and achieve lasting health benefits."

This two-year program, which begins Jan. 1, 2025, and ends Dec. 31, 2026, includes up to 500 randomly selected UI employees who meet eligibility requirements.

Participants will receive comprehensive support, including medical evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and active monitoring by designated UI Health Care providers. The program also offers educational resources and support to help participants stay motivated and achieve their goals.

The weight management pilot is supported by data from the Personal Health Assessment (PHA). The PHA promotes well-being at Iowa by providing workplace insights, guiding campus resource allocation, and creating impactful programs.

By investing in the health of our employees, the UI is prioritizing the overall health and well-being of campus. Services like Wondr Health, liveWELL's health coach service, and the Employee Assistance Program are available to support employees, regardless of whether they participate in the pilot.

The pilot is a joint effort between University Benefits, UI health plans, University of Iowa Health Care, and pilot program participants.

For more information about the program, including costs and frequently asked questions, please visit the UI GLP-1 Pilot Program webpage.