The department is currently considering what health benefits must be covered by new state insurance plans operating under the Affordable Care Act. Last month, CMS announced obesity screening and counseling would be covered for patients who have a body mass index of 30 or more. An earlier CMS decision provided for coverage of surgical treatment for patients with a BMI of 40 or higher or with a BMI of 35 and above and a chronic medical condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Shape Up America! wants HHS to follow both of those policies.
“Including comprehensive obesity counseling and evidence-based treatment regimens is justified to improve the health outcomes and reduce the costs associated with chronic diseases associated with obesity,” said Barbara J. Moore, Ph.D., president and CEO of Shape Up America! in the release. “Moreover, CMS’s coverage policies establish a solid foundation for HHS to act.”
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