NOVO NORDISK
Fri, 17 Sep 2021 10:30:00 -0400
Fri, 17 Sep 2021 10:30:00 -0400
Pilot program expands existing nutrition coaching and services program at several CVS HealthHUB TM locations to also include coaching for individuals using anti-obesity medications
WOONSOCKET, R.I., and PLAINSBORO, N.J., SEPTEMBER 17, 2021 — CVS Health (NYSE: CVS) and Novo Nordisk Inc. announced today that the two companies are piloting a new, personalized nutrition coaching program to support people struggling with obesity, after their treatment plan has been determined by a licensed provider.
More than 40 percent of the U.S. population suffers from obesity, a chronic disease that is linked to several leading causes of premature death, including heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.[1] Weight loss plans typically focus on diet and exercise and, in some instances, anti-obesity medications. Because each individual’s weight loss journey is unique, a customized plan to address his or her specific needs is critical to optimize health outcomes.
Building upon nutrition coaching services already available at certain CVS Pharmacy HealthHUBTM locations, CVS Health and Novo Nordisk Inc. are working together to offer expanded education and a coaching support program for individuals using anti-obesity medications. The companies plan to continuously innovate to find new ways to help remove known barriers for patients to access health care services and medications, once their physicians have determined the appropriate chronic disease management plan.
“We’re evolving our legacy relationships with pharmaceutical manufacturers to more fully support patients,” said Gary Loeber, executive vice president, Pharmaceutical Contracting and Purchasing at CVS Health. “This initial pilot with Novo Nordisk recognizes people who struggle with weight loss often face stigma and need personalized support. Our CVS Pharmacy nutrition coaches understand those challenges and can support patients in their customized plans and lifestyle choices.”
“Although obesity is a serious chronic disease, it is often misunderstood, underdiagnosed, and under treated. We have been working to change that because people who live with this disease need more care and support,” said Doug Langa, executive vice president, North America Operations and president of Novo Nordisk Inc. “Through partnerships like this, we bring together our collective resources and expertise to make a more meaningful difference and to reach more people with obesity.”
The complete CVS Health nutrition coaching program includes a personal nutrition assessment; twice-monthly body composition tests and dietitian coaching sessions; a coupon for up to 10 free healthy meals; and a digital app with shopping lists, recipes, a restaurant guide, and dietitian messaging capability. CVS Health also offers a “basic” program including only some of these elements. The expanded offering will direct participants to resources, such as their primary care provider, to help them better understand how to properly use their medication.
The expanded pilot program will be available in-person in select locations and virtually, providing an affordable, community-based option. The initial offering will be available at three HealthHUB locations in the Phoenix area – two in Chandler and one in Gilbert – with plans to expand to additional locations later in the year.
CVS Health has a broader enterprise-wide commitment to battling obesity. In addition to the pilot program with Novo Nordisk Inc., the company’s MinuteClinic locations offer weight loss coaching that identifies individual goals and behavioral strategies to improve eating habits and physical activity. Additionally, Aetna’s Lifestyle and Condition Coaching is a personalized health program that allows members to address obesity and other health concerns by learning new healthy habits and mitigating risk factors using advanced analytics, digital tools and one-on-one coaching. The company also offers robust formulary and utilization management capabilities, along with digital support tools, to its CVS Caremark pharmacy benefits management clients who wish to support their members’ weight management objectives.
About CVS Health
CVS Health is the leading health solutions company, delivering care in ways no one else can. We reach more people and improve the health of communities across America through our local presence, digital channels and our nearly 300,000 dedicated colleagues – including more than 40,000 physicians, pharmacists, nurses, and nurse practitioners. Wherever and whenever people need us, we help them with their health – whether that’s managing chronic diseases, staying compliant with their medications, or accessing affordable health and wellness services in the most convenient ways. We help people navigate the health care system – and their personal health care – by improving access, lowering costs and being a trusted partner for every meaningful moment of health. And we do it all with heart, each and every day. Learn more at www.cvshealth.com.
About Novo Nordisk
Novo Nordisk is a global healthcare company that's been making innovative medicines to help people with diabetes lead longer, healthier lives for 95 years. This heritage has given us experience and capabilities that also enable us to help people defeat other serious diseases including obesity, hemophilia and growth disorders. We remain steadfast in our conviction that the formula for lasting success is to stay focused, think long-term and do business in a financially, socially and environmentally responsible way. With U.S. headquarters in New Jersey and production and research facilities in six states, Novo Nordisk employs nearly 6,000 people throughout the country. For more information, visit novonordisk.us, Facebook , Instagram and Twitter.
CVS Health media contact
Tracy Ogden
401-302-4190
CVS Health investor contact
Katie Durant
401-770-6442
katherine.durant@cvshealth.com
Novo Nordisk Inc. media contact
Michael Bachner
609-664-7308