Optum Rx debuts weight management program

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Optum Rx has debuted a new weight management and wellness support program called Weight Engage, which will be available to consumers of plan sponsors, including employers, beginning January 1.

Optum Rx Weight Engage is designed to support employers, health plans and the consumers with a comprehensive approach to drive better health outcomes and manage coverages. This entails improving overall affordability – including that of weight loss medications – which for some classes, drug manufacturer pricing now exceeds $10,000 per year, said Optum.

WHAT'S THE IMPACT

Programming starts with a review of client coverage goals; this is to tailor programs that combine clinical and provider network solutions with patient monitoring, motivation and support tools. 

A provider-guided program will connect the consumer with an obesity management specialist to provide a path to clinically appropriate treatment. Optum expects that a consumer-driven program will provide a live and interactive coaching program, enrolling the patient into wellness support with a health coach in conjunction with weight loss goal achievement.

Clients have the flexibility to configure elements to their liking. Consumers may access different components of the program based on their preferences, such as using a live coach or going through a digital platform.

Key to the program, said Optum, is supporting the consumer with navigation through their specific benefit coverage, with a specialized provider network to address clinical questions and needs, as well as coaching and lifestyle programs. These elements will support future programs to assist clients and consumers with medication and healthcare management.

THE LARGER TREND

UnitedHealth Group, which owns Optum, posted $5.8 billion in profit for the third quarter, a slight increase over last year's Q3 figure, and raked in $92.4 billion in revenue, a 14% increase over the year prior.

Optum third-quarter revenues grew 22% to $56.7 billion. Operating earnings were $3.9 billion compared to $3.7 billion last year. The operating margin of 6.9% compares to 7.9% in the prior year, which officials said reflect investments in services for patients and customers.

Meanwhile, Optum Rx revenue increased 14% in the third quarter due to growth in serving new clients, expanded relationships with existing clients and "continued advancement in the comprehensive scope of pharmacy services offered, including specialty and community-based pharmacy offerings," according to UHG.

UHG's $5.4 billion acquisition of home health company LHC Group formally closed in February. LHC provides healthcare services in the home for a demographic of mostly older patients dealing with chronic illnesses and injuries. It will be melded with Optum, which manages drug benefits and offers data analytics services and works with more than 100 health plans.

Twitter: @JELagasse
Email the writer: Jeff.Lagasse@himssmedia.com