Tamra Canty-Currie struggled with obesity for years, finding it difficult to perform everyday tasks and play with her son. After trying various methods to improve her health, she was prescribed Ozempic, a medication originally for diabetes but also used off-label as a weight-loss drug. Initially hesitant due to societal stigma, she decided to give it a try when she was told it could help reduce her risk of obesity-related diseases. Canty-Currie has since lost 22 pounds in 30 weeks, making daily activities easier for her.
Despite experiencing positive results with Ozempic, Canty-Currie faces a financial hurdle as the medication costs nearly $500 per month, which she has to pay out of pocket. In Quebec, the health insurance board does not cover weight-loss medications like Ozempic unless they are prescribed for individuals with diabetes. The province also does not recognize obesity as a chronic illness, leading to limited access to treatment options for individuals like Canty-Currie who do not have diabetes.
Dr. Yves Robitaille, an internal medicine specialist in Quebec, believes that obesity should be considered a chronic disease and individuals suffering from it should have equal access to medication. He emphasizes that treating obesity is not just about reducing weight but also about minimizing the risks of associated diseases and complications. A report released by Quebec’s national institute for excellence in health and social services has recommended a pilot project to explore the possibility of RAMQ covering the costs of weight-loss medication for obesity, with the provincial government currently evaluating the report.
In response to the lack of coverage for weight-loss medications in Quebec, calls have grown for the province to recognize obesity as a chronic disease and improve access to treatment options. An online petition has been launched to advocate for this cause, citing the high prevalence of obesity in the Quebec population and the need to address the associated health risks and rising healthcare costs. Support from various groups, including the official Opposition Quebec Liberals, has bolstered efforts to push for better access to weight-loss drugs for individuals with obesity.
Cynthia Falardeau, a spokesperson for Obesity Matters, highlights the importance of making weight-loss medications more accessible for individuals with obesity to improve their quality of life and potentially save lives. She shares her own experience with medication and emphasizes the need for others to have access to similar treatments. A recent poll conducted by Novo Nordisk, the company that manufactures Ozempic, indicates that 80% of respondents believe the Quebec government and public health system should do more to support those living with obesity. However, concerns have been raised about labeling obesity as a disease, with some suggesting it could perpetuate negative stereotypes and prejudice towards individuals who are overweight.
As Quebec grapples with the issue of recognizing obesity as a chronic disease and improving access to weight-loss medications, the government is under pressure to take action to address the needs of individuals struggling with obesity. Advocates and supporters continue to push for policy changes and increased support for those living with obesity, emphasizing the importance of preventative measures and access to effective treatments to improve overall health outcomes for affected individuals.
