It’s now clear that GLP-1s are effective in treating overweight and obesity, and even more so with behavioral support. We also know that feeling connected to community can enhance and increase engagement. Greater engagement translates into better program and medication adherence, which means better outcomes — even after discontinuing medication. With WeightWatchers, members not only maintained their weight loss, but dropped an additional 1.8% of their body weight after transitioning from our Clinic program to our behavioral program.1
WeightWatchers offers a judgment-free community where members can connect with other members on similar weight health journeys, take part in virtual and in-person workshops, and rely on a support system of expert coaches. The community aspect of the program helps counter the social isolation that some GLP-1 users experience.
In addition, the WW app features a member’s-only social network called “Connect,” which includes affinity groups based on shared backgrounds and experiences. Members can find new connections who are on a similar weight health journey, in the same stage of life, with shared interests, or with relatable lived experiences. These groups provide a space for members to interact with like-minded individuals, share their wins, discuss struggles, and build supportive relationships. Members can create their profiles, add their own posts and follow other members within the Connect social network.
While GLP-1 medications are effective, integrating them with a comprehensive wraparound program can significantly enhance results and maximize ROI. In fact, a recent clinical trial shows that taking medications along with participation in the WeightWatchers behavioral program is 54% more effective for weight loss than reliance on medications alone.2
Adherence is key to successful weight loss with GLP-1s. A wraparound program improves medication adherence by providing added support and motivation. When employees face challenges like navigating side effects or out-of-pocket costs, a wraparound program can provide ongoing education and encouragement to help them stay motivated and committed to their weight health goals.
Wraparound programs go beyond the medication itself to address lifestyle factors, which can enhance weight loss and increase metabolic impact. Programs designed to support GLP-1 effectiveness can lead to lower overall healthcare costs for employers, maximizing the employer’s investment in GLP-1 coverage.
Lifestyle change remains the foundation for all weight loss. By fostering adherence and engagement, wraparound programs aim to help individuals maintain their progress even after they stop taking the medication. These programs demonstrate a commitment to employee health and well-being, meeting each member where they are on their weight management journey.
WeightWatchers is known for their experience in providing comprehensive weight management programs, including for GLP-1 users. The GLP-1 specific behavior change program available through the WeightWatchers full-spectrum platform offers flexible options, including compounded GLP-1s, as regulations allow. Together, we’ll tailor a program for your unique employee population and build a deployment strategy designed to support your goals for cost containment, weight management, and results beyond the scale. We can also work in concert with an employer’s own clinic, PBM, and health plan to make the employee experience more seamless.
For employers not currently covering GLP-1s, a behavioral weight management program is still a worthwhile investment and can provide support to employees across their weight health journey, including those prescribed GLP-1s by their primary care provider. WeightWatchers offers clinically effective weight management programs that can help improve the health of your employee population, driving down medical costs. Employers who aren’t currently ready to cover GLP-1s may choose to reinvest this initial ROI in future GLP-1 coverage.
WeightWatchers is a trusted leader in weight management, combining science and community, and helping our millions of members live their healthiest lives. Employers who are looking for ways to balance GLP-1 access with responsible use can leverage WeightWatcher’s expertise to optimize their GLP-1 and weight management strategies. Our full-spectrum program supports GLP-1 medication adherence for improved health outcomes and cost savings. Contact us with your questions about implementing a wraparound program that kicks it up a notch with the secret sauce for success.
1 On average, after 13 weeks. Based on observational data from 200 individuals.
2 Based on a 12-week randomized controlled trial (n=101) that compared taking bupropion & naltrexone medications on their own to taking bupropion & naltrexone with the WeightWatchers aal program, including the PointsⓇ Program. Jones et al. Manuscript in draft. Funded by WW International, Inc.