As rising rates of obesity and related chronic conditions continue to impact workforce health, employers and health plans are increasingly exploring weight management solutions. Identifying whether you need a weight management solution for your workforce is key to improving outcomes and controlling GLP-1 costs, absenteeism, and long-term risk. But how do you know if your population actually needs a solution? Here is a guide to help you determine if a weight management solution is right for your organization.
1. Analyze claims data for obesity-related trends
Claims data will help you identify trends in weight-related conditions. Review your medical and pharmacy claims to look for:
- A high prevalence of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, high cholesterol, MSK issues or obstructive sleep apnea
- Elevated BMI codes in preventive or primary care visits
- Rising bariatric surgery claims or referrals
These data points often indicate unmanaged or escalating weight-related risk factors in your population.
2. Track GLP-1 and medications linked to obesity
Obesity-related prescriptions are growing fast, and they’re costly. Review your pharmacy spend to look for:
- An increase in GLP-1 medications for weight loss
- Persistent use of chronic disease medications tied to obesity (e.g., insulin, statins, blood pressure meds)
If you see these trends, it is likely time to consider a solution that addresses the root cause of obesity and weight-related chronic conditions through lifestyle and behavior change.
3. Consider absenteeism and productivity metrics
Weight-related health issues don’t just drive claims, they affect presenteeism, absenteeism, and disability. Look for:
- Increased sick days or short-term disability claims
- Higher rates of joint or mobility issues, fatigue, or mental health conditions
These may reflect a deeper need for lifestyle support that helps employees manage weight and improve productivity.
4. Survey employees on wellness needs
Feedback from your population will provide valuable insights to guide your benefits strategy. Consider using a pulse survey or well-being assessment to ask:
- Do you feel confident managing your weight?
- Would you be interested in a weight-loss or lifestyle program if offered?
- What barriers prevent you from achieving your health goals?
This input can help you identify demand and determine readiness for a weight management solution.
5. Review existing weight management programs and gaps
Before launching something new, audit what benefits you already have in place:
- Do you have an evidence-based program for weight management?
- Are your nutrition, fitness, and behavioral health offerings coordinated?
- Do employees or members have access to coaching or community support?
If the answer is no, or if use is low, it may be time to integrate a structured solution that combines all three factors.
6. Benchmark against other organizations
Compare your population health indicators with national or regional benchmarks. Are your rates of obesity-related conditions higher than average? Are your GLP-1 costs rising faster than other organizations? Benchmarking helps quantify the urgency and size of the opportunity, which is important before justifying the investment.
7. Assess workplace culture for wellness program readiness
Even the best program won’t succeed if your culture doesn’t support it. Ask yourself:
- Do leaders model healthy behavior?
- Are wellness resources promoted and normalized?
- Is there a stigma around weight or body image?
A successful weight management solution should be inclusive, science-based, and focused on health and not the number on the scale.
8. Know the green flags for a weight management solution
If your data supports the need, consider a program that includes full-spectrum support with:
- Behavioral and lifestyle science
- Clinical expertise and proven outcomes
- Personalized condition-specific pathways
- Expert nutrition services and coaching
- Tailored prescribing and medication management for those who need it
- Comprehensive whole-person support
- Integration with existing well-being programs
- Tracking of adherence, behaviors, and outcomes
Weight management is not one-size-fits-all, and neither is the decision to offer a weight management solution. With the right mix of data analysis, employee or member feedback, and cultural context, you can make a well-informed decision that helps improve the health of your population and your bottom line. To contact a Wondr Health representative to learn more, visit https://wondrhealth.com/get-started-business/.
