Telehealth clinic launched by Weight Watchers to prescribe medications for weight loss

WeightWatchers is entering the telehealth weight loss management arena, due to increasing demand for remote healthcare services. Following its acquisition of digital health company Sequence in May, WeightWatchers has introduced its clinic, accessible through its app. 

This service connects users with certified clinicians and grants access to FDA-approved GLP-1 medications. The company has also introduced a specialized GLP-1 program within the app, providing tailored behavioral support for individuals using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro.

Developed by a team of obesity specialists, behavior-change scientists, dietitians, and fitness experts, the GLP-1 program aims to address the unique behavioral and nutritional challenges patients face on a GLP-1 journey. Recognizing the importance of behavioral modification for successful GLP-1 medication use and weight maintenance, WeightWatchers aims to fill a market gap in this emerging space.

The program focuses on assisting members in establishing and maintaining healthy habits, particularly during periods of reduced appetite associated with GLP-1 medications. It emphasizes adequate nutrition, specifically focusing on protein and nutrient-rich foods, as well as adequate hydration. Additionally, the program sets movement goals to promote overall well-being.

Gary Foster, Chief Scientific Officer at WeightWatchers, highlighted the distinct behavioral challenges individuals face on GLP-1 medications, emphasizing the need for tailored support. He explained that the GLP-1 Program addresses issues such as reduced appetite, significant weight loss, and muscle loss, guiding dietary protein and activity to minimize muscle mass loss.

WeightWatchers Clinic offers eligible members access to a comprehensive virtual care team, including a care coordinator, registered dietitian, fitness specialist, and board-certified clinician. This multidisciplinary approach aims to facilitate the insurance process, provide dietary guidance, offer fitness support, and manage medications effectively.

Traditionally known for its behavior-based strategies involving diet, exercise, and a points-based system, WeightWatchers has evolved to meet the rising demand for GLP-1 agonists. Medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, initially approved as diabetes treatments, have gained popularity for their weight loss benefits. Studies indicate that individuals taking semaglutide, a component of these drugs, can experience a significant reduction in body weight.

WeightWatchers’ strategic shift aligns with industry trends, where telehealth companies, such as Teladoc, Ro, Everly Health, and Form Health, are capitalizing on the increasing interest in weight loss drugs. Digital health company Hims & Hers has also entered this space, recently launching a weight loss program featuring digital tracking tools, educational content, and medication access, with plans to include next-generation weight loss drugs in the future. WeightWatchers’ move reflects a broader shift within the industry, acknowledging the role of pharmaceutical interventions in weight management alongside behavioral strategies.