South Carolina ranks tenth in the nation in Ozempic spending, new study claims

South Carolina residents are facing a significant financial burden when it comes to accessing newer weight loss medications, specifically GLP-1s like Ozempic. A recent study indicates the state ranks tenth nationally in the proportion of annual household income spent on these drugs.

The Financial Impact on South Carolina Households

According to the study by ValuePenguin, a LendingTree subsidiary, the median South Carolina household would allocate over 8% of its income to cover the cost of a 2mg dose of Ozempic. This translates to an annual expense of $5,988, based on a monthly cost of $499. Even at a lower dosage, with a monthly cost of $349, the medication would still consume approximately 5.8% of a typical household’s income.

Did You Know? The median household income in South Carolina between 2019 and 2023 was $66,818.

This financial strain is occurring within a state where over 10% of residents under 65 live with disabilities and 11% lack health insurance coverage. The rising costs of GLP-1s are identified as a “key contributor” to the projected 21% increase in health insurance premiums South Carolina is expected to see in 2026.

Obesity Rates and Medication Access

South Carolina’s situation unfolds against a backdrop of increasing obesity rates. In 2024, the state ranked 21st in obesity prevalence among the contiguous United States, with 34.6% of adults affected. The South Carolina Department of Public Health identified the state as one of 23 with an adult obesity rate at or above 35%, impacting 36% of the adult population.

Expert Insight: The high cost of these medications, coupled with existing health disparities, suggests a potential for widening gaps in access to care for South Carolina residents. This could exacerbate existing health challenges related to obesity and related conditions.

Nationally, the study reveals that 58% of Americans currently taking GLP-1s report difficulty affording them. Furthermore, 55% of those familiar with these medications indicate they would likely use Ozempic for weight loss if it were fully covered by their insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of household income could a South Carolina family spend on Ozempic?

A South Carolina household could spend over 8% of its income on a 2mg dose of Ozempic, or about 5.8% on a lower dose, according to the study.

What is the projected increase in health insurance premiums in South Carolina?

Health insurance premiums in South Carolina are projected to increase by 21% in 2026, with the costs associated with GLP-1s being a key contributor.

What percentage of South Carolina adults are dealing with obesity?

36% of adults in South Carolina are dealing with obesity, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Health.

As the demand for GLP-1s continues to grow, and as insurance coverage and affordability remain significant hurdles, it is possible that access to these medications will become increasingly stratified, potentially impacting public health outcomes in South Carolina. It is also possible that alternative strategies for weight management will gain prominence if these medications remain financially out of reach for many.