The American Diabetes Association® (ADA) praises North Carolina’s decision to reverse Medicaid cuts announced in October, temporarily preserving access to essential health care services for people living with diabetes, obesity, or both.
“We are relieved to see Medicaid provider rates and obesity coverage restored in North Carolina,” said Monica Billger, the ADA’s director of state government affairs. “This temporary restoration is an important step to ensuring care for individuals living with diabetes, obesity or both.”
In North Carolina, approximately 610,000 adults, or 34% of the adult population, have obesity. Among adults ages 65 and older, 32% are affected. The state’s adult obesity rate is projected to increase to 50% by 2030.
Medicaid supports critical services, including regular medical visits, diabetes self-management education, medications like insulin, treatment for complications, and services that support obesity management and prevention.
“I am delighted that North Carolina has exhibited the vision to treat overweight and obesity like the important medical condition that it is in order to reduce harm from the over 200 common complications from excess weight,” said John B. Buse, MD, professor, University of North Carolina School of Medicine.
The ADA has taken a multi-pronged approach in the state to protect Medicaid coverage of obesity medications, including coalition advocacy, public awareness campaigns, and direct communications with the governor and state legislators. Medicaid coverage for GLP-1-based medications is anticipated to be reinstated retroactively.
“These medications are life-altering and should be available to all those who need them,” said Susan E. Spratt, MD, professor, Duke School of Medicine.
The ADA will continue working with lawmakers, health care professionals, and community partners to advocate for solutions to ensure continuity care, protect vulnerable populations, and improve access to care for millions of Americans living with diabetes, obesity, or both.
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About the American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization fighting to end diabetes and helping people thrive. This year, the ADA celebrates 85 years of driving discovery and research to prevent, manage, treat, and ultimately cure diabetes—and we’re not stopping. There are 136 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, program development, and education, we’re fighting for them all. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383). Join us in the fight on Facebook (American Diabetes Association), Spanish Facebook (Asociación Americana de la Diabetes), LinkedIn (American Diabetes Association), and Instagram (@AmDiabetesAssn). To learn more about how we are advocating for everyone affected by diabetes, visit us on X (@AmDiabetesAssn).
