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Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2023

3/6/2024, 4:36 PM

Summary of Bill S 2407

Bill 118 s 2407, also known as the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2023, is a piece of legislation introduced in the US Congress with the aim of addressing the growing issue of obesity in the country. The bill seeks to improve access to care and treatment for individuals struggling with obesity, as well as to promote research and education on the causes and consequences of obesity.

One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a grant program to support healthcare providers in implementing evidence-based obesity treatment and prevention programs. This would include funding for training and education for healthcare professionals, as well as support for community-based initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing obesity rates.

Additionally, the bill calls for the creation of a national obesity research agenda, which would prioritize research on the most effective strategies for preventing and treating obesity. This would involve collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, and researchers to identify gaps in knowledge and develop new approaches to addressing the obesity epidemic. Overall, the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2023 represents a comprehensive effort to combat obesity in the United States through a combination of improved access to care, increased research funding, and enhanced education and prevention efforts. If passed, this legislation has the potential to make a significant impact on the health and well-being of millions of Americans struggling with obesity.

Congressional Summary of S 2407

Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2023

This bill expands Medicare coverage of intensive behavioral therapy for obesity. Specifically, the bill allows coverage for therapy that is provided by (1) a physician who is not a primary care physician; or (2) other health care providers (e.g., physician assistants and nurse practitioners) and approved counseling programs, if provided upon a referral from, and in coordination with, a physician or primary care practitioner. Currently, such therapy is covered only if provided by a primary care practitioner.

The bill also allows coverage under Medicare's prescription drug benefit of drugs used for the treatment of obesity or for weight loss management for individuals who are overweight.

Current Status of Bill S 2407

Bill S 2407 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since July 20, 2023. Bill S 2407 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on July 20, 2023.  Bill S 2407's most recent activity was Read twice and referred to the Committee on Finance. as of July 20, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 2407

Total Number of Sponsors
1
Democrat Sponsors
1
Republican Sponsors
0
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
42
Democrat Cosponsors
20
Republican Cosponsors
22
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 2407

Primary Policy Focus

Health

Potential Impact Areas

- Congressional oversight
- Health care coverage and access
- Health personnel
- Health promotion and preventive care
- Medical research
- Medicare
- Mental health
- Nutrition and diet
- Physical fitness and lifestyle
- Prescription drugs

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 2407

Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2023
Treat and Reduce Obesity Act of 2023
A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for the coordination of programs to prevent and treat obesity, and for other purposes.
A bill to amend title XVIII of the Social Security Act to provide for the coordination of programs to prevent and treat obesity, and for other purposes.

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