"Balancing Weight-Loss Drug Access and Affordability in Healthcare"

The North Carolina State Health Plan's decision to drop coverage for the weight-loss drug Wegovy in an effort to cut costs has backfired, resulting in the loss of a substantial rebate and an expected increase in spending by $54 million. The plan's attempts to negotiate limits on coverage were rejected by its pharmacy benefits manager and the drug's manufacturer, leading to frustration and concerns about the manager's ability to secure the best deals. Despite the setback, the plan will continue to cover diabetes drugs with weight-loss side effects.