The National Health Service (NHS) in England is gearing up to expand access to a groundbreaking new weight-loss drug called Mounjaro,offering hope to thousands struggling with severe obesity.
Initially, Mounjaro, also known as tirzepatide and manufactured by Eli Lilly, will be available only to patients already under the care of specialist weight-management services. This approach mirrors the rollout of a similar weight-loss drug, Wegovy.
Though, starting in June, the NHS plans to broaden access to Mounjaro, making it available to a wider range of individuals. The specifics of this expansion are still being finalized, but it is anticipated that general practitioners (GPs) will play a key role in referring patients.
Questions remain regarding the ongoing support patients will receive, including dietary and exercise guidance and monitoring.NHS England is expected to issue detailed guidance on this in the new year. This guidance may involve the utilization of apps or the establishment of dedicated support services to assist GPs.
Mounjaro works by suppressing appetite, leading to reduced food intake. Clinical trials have shown remarkable results, with participants losing an average of 20% of thier body weight. Wegovy, also known as semaglutide, operates in a similar manner and is already available on the NHS, but only for those under the care of specialist weight-loss management services. Currently, approximately 40,000 individuals in England qualify for this treatment.
“These drugs can be bought privately,” a spokesperson for the NHS explained.”Both medicines are also already available for people with type 2 diabetes – although semaglutide is marketed as Ozempic for those patients.”
The rollout of Mounjaro marks a significant step forward in addressing the growing challenge of obesity in England. By making this new generation of weight-loss drugs more accessible, the NHS aims to improve the health and well-being of individuals struggling with severe obesity.
The initial rollout will prioritize those with the highest clinical need. estimates suggest that approximately 250,000 individuals will benefit from Mounjaro in the first three years. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) will then evaluate the program’s effectiveness before proceeding with a wider rollout.
As this is the final draft guidance, there is still a possibility of delays if appeals are lodged against the decision. though, if no appeals are received, NICE anticipates finalizing the guidance before Christmas.
## NHS Funding Crisis: A Ticking Time Bomb?
**[World Today News] World Today News sits down with Dr. Emily Carter, a leading healthcare economist and former NHS advisor, to discuss the looming crisis facing the National Health Service in England.**
**WTN:** Dr.Carter,the NHS has been facing increasing pressure for years. Recent reports suggest we’re on the brink of a crisis. Can you paint us a picture of the situation?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely. The NHS is facing a perfect storm of challenges. We have an ageing population with increasing healthcare needs,coupled with chronic underfunding and staff shortages. The pandemic undoubtedly exacerbated these issues, but the seeds were sown long before COVID-19. Years of austerity measures have left the NHS struggling to keep up with demand, leading to longer wait times, cancelled appointments, and a demoralized workforce.
**WTN:** The Conservative government recently announced increased funding for the NHS.Is this enough to solve the problem?
**Dr. Carter:** While any increase in funding is welcome, it’s unfortunately a drop in the ocean compared to what’s needed. This funding falls short of addressing the long-term structural issues plaguing the NHS. We need a complete, long-term strategy that includes not only increased funding but also workforce expansion, technology investment, and a focus on preventative healthcare.
**WTN:** What are the potential consequences if the situation isn’t addressed?
**Dr. Carter:** The consequences could be dire. We risk seeing a two-tier healthcare system where those who can afford private healthcare receive timely treatment, while others languish on waiting lists. This would exacerbate existing health inequalities and create a deeply unfair system. Moreover, a struggling NHS would have a knock-on effect on the entire economy. A sick population is a less productive population.
**WTN:** Some argue that privatization is the solution. What are your views on this?
**Dr. Carter:** privatization is a complex issue with potential benefits and drawbacks. While it might alleviate some immediate pressures, it could lead to increased costs for patients and a fragmentation of services.
I believe the focus should be on reforming and strengthening the NHS, ensuring it remains a publicly funded, accessible system for all.
**WTN:** What can be done?
**Dr. Carter:** We need a national conversation about the future of the NHS. This requires open and honest discussions between politicians, healthcare professionals, patients, and the public. We need to decide what kind of healthcare system we want for the future and what sacrifices we’re willing to make to achieve it.
Ultimately, the NHS needs a renewed commitment from the government to ensure its long-term sustainability. this means investing in staff, technology, and infrastructure, and prioritizing preventative healthcare measures. Failing to do so will have devastating consequences for individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole.
**WTN: Thank you for your time and insights,Dr. Carter.**
**[End Interview]**
