Obesity Care Costs Surge 430% in Netherlands: GLI & Medication Rise

Healthcare costs related to obesity and long-term care are experiencing significant increases, according to preliminary data analyzed through the third quarter of 2025. These rising costs reflect both increased utilization of specific programs and broader economic pressures impacting the healthcare system.

Rising Costs of Obesity Intervention

Participation in the Combined Lifestyle Intervention (GLI) program has risen sharply in recent years. Costs associated with GLI have increased by over 430%, jumping from €11.9 million to €51.2 million. Simultaneously, spending on the obesity medications Saxenda® and Mysimba®, both covered under the standard healthcare package, has increased by 341%, from €9.3 million to €31.8 million.

Did You Know? Since 2022, individuals participating in the GLI program have more than tripled, increasing from approximately 37,000 to over 106,000 people.

The GLI program focuses on sustainable behavioral changes through guidance on nutrition, exercise, sleep and relaxation. Eligibility for Saxenda® and Mysimba® requires at least one year of participation in a GLI program, with medication access dependent on specific health criteria. Saxenda® is available to those with a BMI of 35 or higher with related health issues, or a BMI of 40 or higher. Mysimba® is prescribed for individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with associated health risks.

Broader Trends in Healthcare Costs

Beyond obesity-related care, costs in long-term care increased by 7.6% to €38.8 billion in 2025. This rise is largely attributed to inflation and improvements in care for vulnerable seniors. Specifically, costs increased 6.6% in elderly care, 8.4% in care for people with disabilities, and 8.5% in mental healthcare.

Expert Insight: The substantial increase in costs associated with both preventative lifestyle interventions and pharmaceutical treatments for obesity underscores the growing public health challenge posed by weight-related illnesses and the complex interplay between individual behavior, environmental factors, and healthcare access.

Improvements in care for vulnerable seniors are also contributing to rising costs. Since 2025, seniors have had easier access to rehabilitation care at home, eliminating the need for initial stays in rehabilitation facilities and extending the duration of care. Increased funding for nursing and care in the final stages of life, along with the introduction of “trajectory care” for complex cases, are also factors.

Looking Ahead

The Zorginstituut Nederland anticipates evaluating two additional obesity medications, Wegovy® and Mounjaro®, in 2026. The evaluation process will initially focus on specific patient groups. A key emphasis remains on preventative measures, with Mark Janssen, Chairman of the Board, stating that addressing the root causes of obesity – our living environment and lifestyle – is crucial. Future policy will continue to prioritize GLI participation as a prerequisite for accessing obesity medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Combined Lifestyle Intervention (GLI) program?

The GLI program is designed to promote sustainable behavioral changes through guidance on nutrition, exercise, sleep, and relaxation.

What are the criteria for receiving Saxenda®?

Saxenda® is available to individuals with a BMI of 35 or higher with accompanying health conditions like heart disease, sleep apnea, or arthritis, or to those with a BMI of 40 or higher.

What factors contributed to the increase in long-term care costs?

The increase in long-term care costs is primarily due to inflation, improvements in care for vulnerable seniors, and increased access to home rehabilitation services.

As healthcare systems grapple with rising costs and evolving patient needs, how might a greater emphasis on preventative care reshape the future of obesity treatment and long-term care?