Insurer and Employer Views on Pediatric Obesity Treatment: a Qualitative Study

This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Hampl, S.E., Davis, A.M., Sampilo, M.L., Stephens, K.L. and Dean, K. (2013), Insurer and employer views on pediatric obesity treatment: A qualitative study. Obesity, 21: 795–799. doi:10.1002/oby.20112, which has been published in final form at http://doi.org/10.1002/oby.20112. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Self-Archiving.OBJECTIVE The effectiveness of group-based comprehensive, multidisciplinary (stage 3) pediatric weight management programs is backed by a growing body of literature, yet insurance coverage of these programs is scarce to nonexistent, limiting their reach and long-term survival. The objective of this study was to better understand the perspectives of insurers and large employers on the issue of group-based treatment coverage. DESIGN AND METHODS The authors performed a qualitative study utilizing structured interviews with these stakeholders, following accepted techniques. RESULTS Six major themes emerged: cost, program effectiveness, corporate social responsibility, secondary parental (employee) benefits, coverage options and new benefit determination. CONCLUSION Future efforts to secure payment for group-based pediatric weight management programs should address these key themes