43% of Illinois Women are Impacted by Obesity, Yet Coverage of Care Remains Limited
October 31, 2024
Illinois’ growing obesity crisis
Obesity is a growing public health crisis in Illinois, impacting 44% of the state’s population and 43% of women. Women of color are disproportionately impacted – 56% of Black women and 48% of Hispanic women in Illinois are living with obesity. And obesity is linked to over 200 other chronic health complications, including breast and ovarian cancers and fertility challenges.
current coverage landscape
Despite the widespread prevalence of obesity in the state, access to the full range of effective treatment options remains limited.
- Only 13% of Illinoisans have health insurance plans that cover obesity medications.
- Illinois Medicaid does not cover obesity medications or nutrition counseling, and metabolic and bariatric surgery are only covered with limitations.
However, in the state’s most recent budget bill, coverage for obesity medications was added to the state employees health plan, for eligible individuals.
obesity’s financial impact
Obesity has a significant financial impact on the state of Illinois, which is home to many of the top workplaces for women. Obesity reduced economic activity in Illinois by $17.6 billion and increased employers’ healthcare costs by $2.1 billion in 2022. And obesity’s financial impact isn’t just felt by employers – nationally, women living with obesity earn 9% less than women without obesity.
Covering comprehensive obesity care in Illinois is a crucial step in improving the overall well-being of individuals and communities across the state. Addressing obesity head-on will lead to healthier, more productive lives and a stronger, more resilient workforce.
To find out how you can help improve coverage for obesity care, click here.