Chronic Condition Management and GLP-1 Medications, Weight Management
At Crossover Health, we’re always looking for better ways to help our clients address the most pressing health challenges affecting their employee populations. One area showing remarkable promise is the use of GLP-1 and other incretin medications. Initially developed for diabetes management, these medications are now also transforming how we approach chronic conditions like obesity, cardiovascular disease, and more. While GLP-1s offer exciting opportunities for improving outcomes, the real challenge and opportunity is integrating them into a holistic, cost-effective, and sustainable care strategy.
On September 18th, we hosted an in-depth webinar exploring the role anti-obesity medications like GLP-1 agonists can play in reshaping chronic condition management, specifically within employer-sponsored health plans. The session highlighted how these medications, when combined with Crossover’s integrated care model, can improve outcomes, lower long-term costs, and enhance employee well-being
The Rising Cost of Chronic Conditions: Why It Matters to Employers
Nearly three-quarters of U.S. adults are overweight, and 40% are classified as obese. These conditions are often linked to chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, which can increase healthcare costs, lower productivity, and raise absenteeism. At Crossover Health, we believe addressing these issues directly can help employers reduce costs while improving employee satisfaction, engagement, and health outcomes.
Investing in coordinated solutions is no longer optional; it’s essential. By embedding GLP-1 agonists and other anti-obesity medications within an Advanced Primary Care model, employers can support sustainable health improvements while tackling the broader costs of chronic disease.
The Complexity of Weight Management
Weight is influenced by a range of factors: genetics, diet, physical activity, sleep, medications, and environmental and psychosocial conditions. Genetics account for 40 to 70 percent of body weight, and structural barriers such as limited access to healthy foods or safe places to exercise make it harder for people to adopt healthy behaviors. Poor sleep, certain medications, and mental health issues such as stress, trauma or depression also play a role, as do hormonal imbalances and early life factors.
Because so many factors contribute to weight, a one-size-fits-all solution won’t work. A personalized, thoughtful, multifaceted approach is essential.
The Role of GLP-1 Medications: A New Frontier
Incretins such as GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., semaglutide) and GLP-1/GIP agonists (e.g., tirzepatide) are powerful tools for managing obesity and metabolic conditions. These medications stimulate insulin release, delay gastric emptying, and promote satiety, leading to significant weight loss—up to 20% of starting weight—and improved markers such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
These medications are most effective when used as part of a comprehensive, team-based care model. At Crossover, our Clinicians, Dietitians, Therapists, and Fitness Coaches work together to ensure that medications are paired with behavior change, nutrition guidance, fitness support, and Mental Health care.
A Coordinated, Holistic Approach to Weight Management
We don’t see weight loss as a standalone issue. It’s part of a broader picture of health. That’s why we base our care on four core pillars:
- Nutrition: We promote lasting dietary changes vs calorie counting alone. Pairing incretin medications with nutrient-rich eating plans can lead to healthier weight changes and reduce side effects such as muscle loss or constipation.
- Physical Activity: Movement, especially resistance training, helps maintain weight loss, preserve muscle, and support overall health.
- Behavioral Health: We address stress, sleep, and emotional eating through coaching and therapy to build sustainable, healthy habits.
- Medical Tools: Medications can be effective but aren’t appropriate for everyone. We take a thoughtful approach that integrates medical guidance with lifestyle changes for long-term results.
Why a Team-Based Approach Works
The most successful strategies rely on a team. Primary Care providers manage overall health and prescriptions, while Dietitians, Health Coaches, Fitness Coaches, and Mental Health professionals address multiple dimensions of care. This collaborative model ensures patients receive timely, personalized support across all areas of health.
At Crossover, we partner closely with clients to tailor solutions to their workforce. No two organizations are the same, and we build every program with that in mind. By combining innovative treatments like GLP-1s with our integrated care model, we help employers foster healthier, more productive teams.
The future of chronic condition management is here. With Crossover Health, you can offer your employees personalized care that supports not only their medical needs but also their behavioral, nutritional, and lifestyle goals.