From Prescription to Prevention: Building a Holistic, Cost-Effective Obesity Care Model with Movement

GLP-1s are reshaping obesity care by driving measurable results, but they also raise important questions about long-term value, cost, and health equity. As more people turn to these medications, employers and health plans must ask a critical question: How can we help our populations achieve sustainable weight loss and metabolic health without becoming financially dependent on expensive medications?

At Hinge Health, we believe one key piece often gets overlooked: movement. By prioritizing physical activity—whether employees are taking GLP-1s or not—organizations may be able to drive lasting outcomes, cut costs, and promote a culture of holistic well-being.

GLP-1s: Impressive Results, Rising Concerns

There’s no doubt GLP-1s have enabled many to lose weight and better manage blood sugar. Nearly 1 in 60 Americans are now taking a GLP-1 medication,¹ and employers across industries are seeing a surge in utilization, leading to rapidly rising costs. GLP-1s accounted for two of the top four total drug spend categories in 2023.²

Yet, clinical experts and plan sponsors are raising key questions about the sustainability of those costs. Importantly, initial weight lost while taking GLP-1s is often regained quickly when medications stop. That shows that employers can’t simply prescribe their way out of these epidemics.

Movement: The Foundation for Lasting Weight Loss

Physical activity is powerful medicine. Decades of research have shown that regular movement—walking, cycling, group classes, dancing, strength training, and even simple daily steps—can help:

• Accelerate fat loss and preserve muscle mass

• Boost metabolism and energy

• Improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control

• Support mood, stress reduction, and overall well-being

• Prevent weight regain after stopping medications like GLP-1s

The most effective care models are holistic—combining medication, lifestyle changes, coaching, digital support, and equity-centered engagement. Employees who combine GLP-1 use with physical activity and healthy nutrition see better long-term outcomes, including reduced risk of weight regain and improved metabolic metrics.³

Integrating movement into daily routines is accessible and cost-effective, regardless of an individual’s starting point. Even modest increases in movement yield significant benefits, whether someone is brand new to exercise, starting GLP-1s, or ready to taper off medication.