Geographic and Urban Influence on GLP-1 Access

This whitepaper examines the impact of geography and urbanicity on access to GLP-1 therapies in the United States, based on insights from over 1,000 GLP-1-eligible individuals and 130 healthcare providers. It details the uneven distribution of GLP-1 usage, particularly highlighting that the South and rural areas, despite having a high clinical need, show lower adoption rates and higher discontinuation rates compared to other regions. The paper outlines factors contributing to these disparities, including provider familiarity, insurance coverage, and urban versus rural access challenges. It emphasizes that while patients in the South report significant satisfaction and quality of life improvements when on GLP-1 therapy, barriers to access remain prevalent. The findings suggest that understanding these geographic dynamics is crucial for healthcare providers and commercial leaders to effectively address the gaps in GLP-1 therapy initiation and persistence, ultimately aiming to enhance patient outcomes in underserved areas.