ObesityWeek 2024 in San Antonio brought together more than 3,200 attendees to explore the latest science and policies around obesity. The OAC had the privilege of attending this esteemed conference once again, and we hosted a booth that engaged attendees with information about our mission, advocacy efforts and upcoming initiatives. Our new Stop Weight Bias Image Gallery was also on display, sparking conversations on combating weight bias in the media, healthcare and society.
Here’s a look at key highlights from the OAC’s perspective:
The Ideal Patient Experience Survey
At ObesityWeek, we showcased the Ideal Patient Experience Survey — a collaboration between the OAC and leading experts, driven by OAC Members representing the voices of individuals affected by obesity. The survey captures what respectful, bias-free primary care should look like, from creating welcoming environments to offering personalized, non-judgmental care. This work highlights the critical role of patient insights in shaping better obesity care.
Click here and here to view the full Ideal Patient Experience Survey research posters presented at ObesityWeek 2024.
Expanding Medicaid Coverage for Obesity Care
Equitable access to obesity care is another central focus of the OAC. Dr. Tracy Zvenyach, OAC’s Director of Policy Strategy and Alliances, presented findings on Medicaid coverage for obesity treatment that highlighted significant limitations and restrictions placed on coverage and the urgent need for improved access to treatment options. The OAC believes that everyone should have access to essential treatments that improve health. Expanding access could benefit more than 93 million Americans impacted by obesity, reduce national healthcare costs and contribute to a healthier country.
Key Themes from ObesityWeek 2024:
- Innovative Treatments: New medications, including GLP-1 receptor agonists, show promise toward more effective obesity treatment options.
- Complex Understanding of Obesity: Sessions emphasized that obesity is a complex, chronic disease influenced by biology and environment, which shifts away from outdated perspectives.
- Long-Term health Focus: Research highlighted long-term health outcomes for obesity treatment, such as reduced risk for heart problems and diabetes, which shows the value of comprehensive obesity care.
- Equity in Care: The need for unbiased, equitable obesity care was a central theme. Reducing weight bias in healthcare is critical.
- Scaling Care Delivery: Discussions focused on expanding access in primary care to meet the growing demand for obesity treatment.
ObesityWeek 2024 was a reminder of our progress and the work ahead. The OAC remains committed to amplifying patient voices and pushing for a healthcare system that truly supports individuals with obesity.