Weight Loss-Associated Decreases in Medical Care Expenditures for Commercially Insured Patients With Chronic Conditions.

Abstract

Savings associated with weight loss for populations with chronic conditions are poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to estimate medical expenditure savings associated with weight loss among commercially insured adults with chronic medical conditions. 2001-2015 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey data were used to estimate the effect of changes in body mass index (BMI) on health expenditures from instrumental variable regression models. Decreases in annual medical expenditures associated with a reduction in BMI of 1 kg/m2 varied by condition (eg, $289 for back pain and $752 for diabetes). The greater the weight loss, the greater the savings. The higher the baseline BMI, the greater the savings for similar levels of weight loss. The detailed estimates of savings for populations with chronic conditions can be used by employers to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of weight management interventions.