Business
Novo Nordisk boosts lobbying as it seeks Medicare coverage for obesity drugs on August 22, 2023 at 10:00 am Business News | The Hill
Novo Nordisk, the maker of the weight loss drug Wegovy and diabetes medication Ozempic, went on a federal lobbying spending spree in the first six months of 2023.
The Danish drugmaker is pushing Congress to pass a bill that would nix Medicare restrictions on covering weight management treatments.
Novo Nordisk has hired three new lobbying firms over the past three months, all of which disclosed being solely focused on issues related to obesity and Medicare coverage of anti-obesity drugs.
A 2003 law excludes weight-loss drugs from coverage under Medicare, the federal program that provides health coverage for older Americans. But since the American Medical Association recognized obesity as a disease in 2013, momentum has been building to shift federal policy.
“When Congress created the Medicare Part D drug benefit in 2003 the medical community’s understanding of obesity was in its infancy,” Nicole Ferreira, senior manager of corporate communications at Novo Nordisk, told The Hill in a written statement.
“Since then, the science has advanced, and we have learned obesity is a chronic, treatable disease — not simply a behavioral issue,” Ferreira wrote.
Sens. Tom Carper (D-Del.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Reps. Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.) and Brad Wenstrup (R-Ohio) reintroduced the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, which would expand coverage of weight management medication to qualifying Medicare beneficiaries, before the August recess.
Novo Nordisk lobbies up
While the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act has stalled each time it’s been reintroduced over the last decade, drugmakers are capitalizing on several new factors to plead their case.
Public demand for the weight-loss drug is high and initial clinical trials recently suggested Wegovy reduces the risk of serious heart problems.
Qualifying federal employees are also now eligible for anti-obesity medication coverage, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management clarified in January.
“We recognize the progress made in covering anti-obesity medications; our goal is to have all Carriers offer adequate coverage,” the guidance reads.
From January through June 2023, Novo Nordisk spent nearly $2.9 million on federal lobbying for a range of policy issues including obesity drug coverage and the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, according to federal lobbying data analyzed by the money-in-politics group OpenSecrets.
There are more lobbyists than ever on the Novo Nordisk payroll.
Sixty-three lobbyists, 44 of whom have swung through the so-called “revolving door” between the private sector and the government, registered to lobby on behalf of the drug maker in the first half of 2023, according to OpenSecrets data.
Novo Nordisk had 50 total lobbyists in 2022 and 28 in 2019.
Since the end of June, two new lobbying firms registered three new lobbyists to work on issues related to obesity on behalf of Novo Nordisk.
One of the new lobbyists is Bill Ghent, a member of the Subject Matters government relations team and former chief of staff to Carper, the bill’s lead sponsor. Ghent was Carper’s legislative director when the senator first introduced the bill in 2012.
Ghent did not return The Hill’s request for comment.
Shortages, cost concerns could derail momentum
Questions of cost and supply constraints are clouding the hype surrounding these new drugs.
The demand has not only made it harder for people to access the anti-obesity drug, but also for patients with diabetes to access the medication they need.
Wegovy and Ozempic are both injections that contain semaglutide, although the dosage per pen and regulator-approved uses differentiate the drugs.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Ozempic to treat type 2 diabetes in 2017 and the higher-dose Wegovy for weight loss in 2021.
Although Ozempic has not been approved for weight loss, it’s sometimes prescribed off-label — meaning for a purpose outside the one approved by the FDA — as demand for weight loss drugs soars. But off label usage is often not covered by insurers.
Demand for the drug has also outpaced supply, leading the FDA to note that Wegovy and Ozempic semaglutide injections are “currently in shortage.”
“We understand how frustrating this situation is for the communities we serve and appreciate everyone’s patience as we continue to navigate significant demand for Wegovy,” Ferreira said.
“Please know that our commitment to the obesity community is a long-term one and we are investing significantly to build capacity to meet this increasing demand.”
Could Medicare coverage help pricing?
It’s unclear how expanded Medicare coverage would impact already-high demand.
There’s also an ongoing debate on the cost of covering anti-obesity treatments, as the Congressional Budget Office has yet to officially score the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center estimated that covering new anti-obesity medications for just 10 percent of Medicare beneficiaries could cost the federal program up to $26.8 billion per year and drive up premiums for drug plans.
But a study by the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics found Medicare coverage for obesity treatments could generate up to $245 billion in savings in the first 10 years, in part due to reducing co-morbidities associated with obesity, including heart attack and stroke.
“We’ve had to talk about things as so black and white, as either don’t cover it at all or give it to everybody, and I think that there is a middle ground,” Alison Sexton Ward, a research scientist with a doctorate in applied economics who worked on the study, told The Hill in an interview.
“A lot of this conversation is being lost by the list price,” Ward added.
Wegovy is prohibitively expensive without insurance, with the list price topping $1,300 per month. While most patients won’t pay the full list price after rebates or insurance, prices are up to 10 times higher in the U.S. than in other peer nations, a recent analysis by KFF found.
Many rebates also only apply to users who actually have diabetes.
“Novo Nordisk believes the most effective way for the millions of Americans who need anti-obesity medicines to be able to access and afford them is to ensure these medicines are covered by government and commercial insurance plans,” Ferreira said.
Health trade groups rally behind bill
A constellation of organizations including the American Diabetes Association (ADA), Weight Watchers and the Obesity Action Coalition are backing the bill.
“The ADA urges swift Congressional passage of this legislation so older Americans can access the services and treatment to reduce their risk for obesity and diabetes and improve their health,” said Lisa Murdock, the ADA’s chief advocacy officer, in a written statement.
The National Kidney Foundation, American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) and Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics are among the bill’s supporters that reported lobbying work on the bill during the first half of 2023, ahead of its reintroduction.
“Because many private insurance companies model their health benefits to reflect Medicare, the passage of the bipartisan TROA could lead to improved obesity care options for all Americans,” Dr. Rotonya Carr, chair of the AGA Government Affairs Committee, told The Hill in a written statement.
“The AGA fully supports this legislation and has no reservations about expanding obesity care coverage to the millions of Americans who suffer with obesity and its complications,” Carr wrote.
Notably, the pharmaceutical industry association PhRMA has not taken a position or lobbied on the bill.
“We appreciate the focus on helping seniors access the medicines they need. As the treatment paradigm for diseases and conditions advance, it’s critical to ensure Medicare coverage policies evolve as well,” PhRMA spokesperson Nicole Longo told The Hill.
Business, Health Care, Lobbying, Novo Nordisk, ozempic, Tom Carper, wegovy Novo Nordisk, the maker of the weight loss drug Wegovy and diabetes medication Ozempic, went on a federal lobbying spending spree in the first six months of 2023. The Danish drugmaker is pushing Congress to pass a bill that would nix Medicare restrictions on covering weight management treatments. Novo Nordisk has hired three new lobbying…
The Growing American Exodus
Nearly 9 million Americans now live outside the United States—a number that rivals the population of several states and signals a profound shift in how people view the American dream. This mass migration isn’t confined to retirees or the wealthy. Thanks to remote work, digital nomad visas, and mounting pressures at home, young professionals, families, and business owners are increasingly joining the ranks of expats.
Rising Costs and Shrinking Wallets
Living in the US has become increasingly expensive. Weekly grocery bills topping $300 are not uncommon, and everyday items like coffee and beef have surged in price over the last year. Rent, utilities, and other essentials also continue to climb, leaving many Americans to cut meals or put off purchases just to make ends meet. In contrast, life in countries like Mexico or Costa Rica often costs just 50–60% of what it does in the US—without sacrificing comfort or quality.
Health Care Concerns Drive Migration
America’s health care system is a major trigger for relocation. Despite the fact that the US spends more per person on health care than any other country, millions struggle to access affordable treatment. Over half of Americans admit to delaying medical care due to cost, with households earning below $40,000 seeing this rate jump to 63%. Many expats point to countries such as Spain or Thailand, where health care is both affordable and accessible, as a major draw.
Seeking Safety Abroad
Public safety issues—especially violent crime and gun-related incidents—have made many Americans feel unsafe, even in their own communities. The 2024 Global Peace Index documents a decline in North America’s safety ratings, while families in major cities often prioritize teaching their children to avoid gun violence over simple street safety. In many overseas destinations, newly arrived American families report a significant improvement in their sense of security and peace of mind.
Tax Burdens and Bureaucracy
US tax laws extend abroad, requiring expats to file annual returns and comply with complicated rules through acts such as FATCA. For some, the burden of global tax compliance is so great that thousands relinquish their US citizenship each year simply to escape the paperwork and scrutiny.
The Digital Nomad Revolution
Remote work has unlocked new pathways for Americans. Over a quarter of all paid workdays in the US are now fully remote, and more than 40 countries offer digital nomad visas for foreign professionals. Many Americans are leveraging this opportunity to maintain their US incomes while cutting costs and upgrading their quality of life abroad.
Conclusion: Redefining the Dream
The mass departure of nearly 9 million Americans reveals deep cracks in what was once considered the land of opportunity. Escalating costs, inaccessible healthcare, safety concerns, and relentless bureaucracy have spurred a global search for better options. For millions, the modern American dream is no longer tied to a white-picket fence, but found in newfound freedom beyond America’s borders.
Hollywood is bracing for a pivotal comeback, and for movie lovers, it’s the kind of shake-up that could redefine the very culture of cinema. With the freshly merged Paramount-Skydance shaking up its strategy, CEO David Ellison’s announcement doesn’t just signal a change—it reignites the passion for moviegoing that built the magic of Hollywood in the first place.
Theatrical Experience Roars Back
Fans and insiders alike have felt the itch for more event movies. For years, streaming promised endless options, but fragmented attention left many longing for communal spectacle. Now, with Paramount-Skydance tripling its film output for the big screen, it’s clear: studio leaders believe there’s no substitute for the lights, the hush before the opening credits, and the collective thrill of reacting to Hollywood’s latest blockbusters. Ellison’s pivot away from streaming exclusives taps deep into what unites cinephiles—the lived experience of cinema as art and event, not just content.
Industry Pulse: From Crisis to Renaissance
On the financial front, the numbers are as electrifying as any plot twist. After years of doubt, the box office is roaring. AMC, the world’s largest theater chain, reports a staggering 26% spike in moviegoer attendance and 36% revenue growth in Q2 2025. That kind of momentum hasn’t been seen since the heyday of summer tentpoles—and it’s not just about more tickets sold. AMC’s strategy—premium screens, with IMAX and Dolby Cinema, curated concessions, and branded collectibles—has turned every new release into an event, driving per-customer profits up nearly 50% compared to pre-pandemic norms.
Blockbusters Lead the Culture
Forget the gloom of endless streaming drops; when films like Top Gun: Maverick, Mission: Impossible, Minecraft, and surprise hits like Weapons and Freakier Friday draw crowds, the industry—and movie fans—sit up and take notice. Movie-themed collectibles and concession innovations, from Barbie’s iconic pink car popcorn holders to anniversary tie-ins, have made each screening a moment worth remembering, blending nostalgia and discovery. The focus: high-impact, shared audience experiences that streaming can’t replicate.
Streaming’s Limits and Studio Strategy
Yes, streaming is still surging, but the tide may be turning. The biggest franchises, and the biggest cultural events, happen when audiences come together for a theatrical release. Paramount-Skydance’s shift signals to rivals that premium storytelling and box office spectacle are again at the center of Hollywood value creation. The result is not just higher profits for exhibitors like AMC, but a rebirth of movie-going as the ultimate destination for fans hungry for connection and cinematic adventure.
Future Forecast: Culture, Community, and Blockbuster Dreams
As PwC and others warn that box office totals may take years to fully catch up, movie lovers and industry leaders alike are betting that exclusive theatrical runs, enhanced viewing experiences, and fan-driven engagement are the ingredients for long-term recovery—and a new golden age. The Paramount-Skydance play is more than a business move; it’s a rallying cry for the art of the theatrical event. Expect more big bets, more surprises, and—finally—a long-overdue renaissance for the silver screen.
For those who believe in the power of cinema, it’s a thrilling second act—and the best seat in the house might be front and center once again.
Influencers are being paid as much as $7,000 per post by the Israeli government as part of an expansive and sophisticated digital propaganda campaign. This effort is designed to influence global public opinion—especially among younger social media users—about Israel’s actions in Gaza and to counter critical narratives about the ongoing humanitarian situation.
How Much Is Being Spent?
Recent reports confirm that Israel has dedicated more than $40 million this year to social media and digital influence campaigns, targeting popular platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. In addition to direct influencer payments, Israel is investing tens of millions more in paid ads, search engine placements, and contracts with major tech companies like Google and Meta to push pro-Israel content and challenge critical coverage of issues like the famine in Gaza.
What’s the Strategy?
- Influencer Contracts: Influencers are recruited—often with all-expenses-paid trips to Israel, highly managed experiences, and direct payments—to post content that improves Israel’s image.
- Ad Campaigns: State-backed ad buys show lively Gaza markets and restaurants to counter global reports of famine and humanitarian crisis.
- Narrative Management: These posts and ads often avoid overt propaganda. Instead, they use personal stories, emotional appeals, and “behind the scenes” glimpses intended to humanize Israel’s side of the conflict and create doubt about reports by the UN and humanitarian agencies.
- Amplification: Paid content is strategically promoted so it dominates news feeds and is picked up by news aggregators, Wikipedia editors, and even AI systems that rely on “trusted” digital sources.
Why Is This Happening Now?
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has generated increasing international criticism, especially after the UN classified parts of Gaza as experiencing famine. In this environment, digital public relations has become a primary front in Israel’s efforts to defend its policies and limit diplomatic fallout. By investing in social media influencers, Israel is adapting old-school propaganda strategies (“Hasbara”) to the era of algorithms and youth-driven content.
Why Does It Matter?
This campaign represents a major blurring of the lines between paid promotion, journalism, and activism. When governments pay high-profile influencers to shape social media narratives, it becomes harder for audiences—especially young people—to distinguish between authentic perspectives and sponsored messaging.
In short: Influencers are getting $7,000 per post because Israel is prioritizing social media as a battleground for public opinion, investing millions in shaping what global audiences see, hear, and believe about Gaza and the conflict.
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