Novak, N. L., & Brownell published an article on the American Heart association titled “Role of Policy and Government in the Obesity Epidemic”. They argue that the government has generated different policies to address the obesity disease. One of the policies is the Medicare and Medicaid which was signed into law in the year 1965. Traditionally, this policy has concentrated much in the payment of obesity related treatments rather than on the services to promote healthy living. Medicaid requires that all states cover the “Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefits”. This includes the obesity screening and counseling as well as nutrition. Only children and the youth under the age of 21 years are eligible (Novak & Brownell, 2012).  However, many children are not screened routinely. In addition, among those screened, only a few undergo the regular counseling.

For adults, it is upon the state’s Medicaid plans to determine the level of coverage or co-payment for obesity related treatments. Adults who are insured through healthcare exchanges are eligible for “Preventive and Wellness Services and Chronic Disease Management” coverage. This coverage includes screening and counseling. A 2013 survey by Kaiser Family Foundation revealed that 28 of the states cover both obesity screening and counseling services as well as nutrition counseling. Generally, Medicaid programs cover for obesity-related surgery including lap band or bypass though a patient has to meet a certain criteria. It is disheartening to note that the Medicaid policy does not cover for obesity. Obesity has become a major health problem in America but also in other nations. The government should promote healthy living and physical exercises as opposed to covering for medical expenses.

Work Cited

Novak, Nicole L., and Kelly D. Brownell. “Role of Policy and Government in the Obesity Epidemic.” Role of Policy and Government in the Obesity Epidemic. N.p., 2012. Web. 09 May 2016. <http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/126/19/2345.full>.

 
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