A Historic Win for Latino Health: Obesity Medications to Be Covered by Medicare and Medicaid

Dear LULAC Members and Supporters,

We are excited to share a historic development that represents a major step forward for health outcomes in our communities. On Tuesday, November 26, the Biden administration announced a transformative policy to include anti-obesity medications under Medicare and Medicaid coverage. This long-overdue recognition of obesity as a chronic condition will ensure that, starting in 2026, every state Medicaid program covers these medications, while Medicare will expand access to approximately 3.4 million additional beneficiaries.

This monumental decision has the power to significantly improve health outcomes for Latinos and other underserved populations, marking a pivotal victory after months of relentless advocacy to eliminate barriers to accessible healthcare.

Why This Matters to the Latino Community

Nearly 47% of Latinos are classified as obese, compared to 41.4% of white adults, and the prevalence among Latino children is 26.2%, in stark contrast to 16.6% among non-Latino white children. The impact of these statistics is deeply personal for our communities, where obesity often intersects with other health disparities, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.

Dr. Ray Serrano, LULAC’s Director of Research and Policy, emphasized the urgency of addressing this crisis:

“Obesity is not just a health issue; it’s a systemic challenge. These statistics highlight the barriers Latino families face in accessing affordable, effective healthcare. For Latino children, in particular, the stakes are even higher. These are our future leaders, and they deserve every opportunity to thrive without preventable health conditions holding them back.”

LULAC Chairman and National President Roman Palomares added:

“This policy is a game-changer. By covering anti-obesity medications under Medicare and Medicaid, we are giving millions of Latinos access to proactive treatment rather than reactive care. This is a critical step toward addressing the disparities that have historically affected our healthcare system.”

LULAC's Leadership in Advocacy

This achievement is a direct result of tireless advocacy, and LULAC has been at the forefront of this fight. Over the past year, we have worked diligently to address the obesity epidemic impacting the Latino community, including:

National LULAC Gatherings: Addressing the obesity crisis among Latinos in plenary sessions at the 2024 Legislative Conference and National Convention.
Legislative and Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborating with the Biden administration, HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, and Congress through briefings and direct advocacy to address obesity epidemic among Latinos; Mobilizing over 115 Latino youth volunteers to advocate for the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act with members of Congress.
Strategic Partnerships: Joining forces with organizations like the American Diabetes Association and the National Hispanic Medical Association to amplify our efforts.
State-Level Advocacy: Advocating for the inclusion of anti-obesity medications in state employee health plans and Medicaid formularies through testimony and appeals to state legislators.
Research and Education: Developing resources to inform policymakers about the disproportionate impact of obesity on Latinos and effective solutions.

The Road Ahead

Yesterday’s announcement was no accident—it reflects the steady, strategic advocacy efforts of LULAC and our allies. However, this is not the end of the fight. As we celebrate this victory, we must prepare to ensure that future administrations, including the incoming Trump administration, uphold these vital changes. We must hold policymakers accountable to preserve measures that have the potential to save thousands, if not millions, of lives, especially in our communities.

This is what we can achieve when we unite for a common purpose. Thank you for being part of this movement. Together, we are creating a healthier, more equitable future for all.

In unity and service,

Juan Proaño
Chief Executive Officer
League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC)

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About LULAC
The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) is the nation's oldest and largest Latino civil rights organization. Founded in 1929, LULAC is committed to advancing the rights and opportunities of Latino Americans through advocacy, community building, and education. With a growing network of councils nationwide, LULAC remains steadfast in its mission to protect and empower millions of Latinos, contributing daily to America's prosperity. For more information about LULAC and its initiatives, please visit www.LULAC.org.