The emergence of GLP-1 receptor agonists has transformed discussions about obesity treatment, shifting attention towards pharmacological approaches that offer substantial benefits for some individuals. However, obesity remains fundamentally shaped by the broader social, environmental and commercial systems in which people live. As interest in GLP-1 medicines continues to grow, important questions arise regarding how these therapies can be integrated into health systems in ways that are equitable, effective and sustainable.
Recent Australian research suggests that access to GLP-1 medicines is influenced by affordability, service availability and the capacity of primary care and allied health services to provide ongoing support. While many users report positive changes in eating patterns and weight management, access to comprehensive dietary, behavioural and psychological support appears inconsistent. These issues raise concerns about whether current models of care are sufficient to support long-term outcomes and whether the benefits of these medicines may be unequally distributed across population groups.
At the same time, policy interest in GLP-1 medicines presents both opportunities and challenges. Decisions regarding subsidy, eligibility criteria and service delivery models need to balance potential population health gains against affordability, health system capacity and risks of widening existing inequities. There is also a need to ensure that investment in pharmacological treatment does not divert attention from prevention efforts targeting the food environment, social determinants of health and other upstream drivers of obesity.
This presentation will draw on emerging Australian evidence regarding GLP-1 use, access and support. It will discuss implications for models of care, health equity, economic evaluation and population health policy, highlighting key evidence gaps and priorities for future research and decision making.